Digestive health

Coeliac disease is a chronic, autoimmune condition that is characterised by the damage to the lining of your small intestine when it is exposed to a small amount of the protein called gluten. 

The only reliable treatment of coeliac disease involves a strict, life-long gluten-free diet. the protein gluten is found in many grain based food products such as wheat, barley, rye and oats. 

As a result of this damage to the small intestine, people affected by Coeliac disease absorb food and nutrients poorly (as the majority of your food and nutrients are absorbed in your small intestine). This can result in bowel symptoms and deficiencies in vitamins, minerals and other important nutrients. 

What are the symptoms? 

Coeliac Disease symptoms can vary among individuals, including: 

• Diarrhoea or constipation (or both)
• Malodorous stools  
• Excess flatulence
• Abdominal distention, cramping and bloating  
• Fatigue or weakness 
• Weight loss 
• Nausea and vomiting 
• Anaemia (low iron due to malabsorption)
• Recurrent mouth ulcers

How is Coeliac Disease Diagnosed? 

1. Genetic Testing: Genetic tests to look for the genes associated with Coeliac Disease (HLA DQ2 and HLA DQ8).

2. Blood Test: They measure antibody levels in your blood that your body has produced in response to gluten. Note: Antibody tests are sensitive to gluten intake, so should only be used in people consuming a gluten containing diet.     

3. Small Bowel Biopsy:  The gold standard method of diagnosing coeliac disease is via gastroscopy with 4-6 biopsy samples taken from the small bowel. Note: False negative results can occur if the individual is following a gluten free diet. 

Why is it important to seek help from a health professional if you have been diagnosed with Coeliac Disease?

An Accredited Practicing Dietitian has the knowledge and skills to guide you through:

• The correct testing procedure for diagnosis
• Information on how Coeliac Disease is managed
• Assistance with label reading and interpreting ingredients lists
• Guidance on how to reduce cross contamination of gluten 
• Support you with strategies for eating out, travelling and meal planning 
• Trouble shooting if symptoms persist (investigation of additional dietary factors such as lactose intolerable, IBS, Food Chemicals). 
• Provide reputable information resources for additional support about the disease 

If you think you may have Coeliac Disease, book in a consultation here.