Understanding Gluten Intolerance and Coeliac Disease
Gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular, with around one in ten Australians opting to eliminate gluten-containing foods such as bread, pasta, and noodles. While some people choose to follow a gluten-free diet for various reasons, others may have an underlying condition such as gluten intolerance or coeliac disease.
What is Coeliac Disease?
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects around one in 70 Australians, with only 20% of cases diagnosed. When individuals with coeliac disease consume gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, it triggers an immune response that damages the villi in the small intestine. This can lead to digestive issues like diarrhoea, bloating, and nausea, as well as non-digestive symptoms such as headaches, skin rashes, and fatigue. Long-term untreated coeliac disease can result in malnutrition, reduced bone density, and neurological disorders.
Diagnosing Coeliac Disease
Diagnosing coeliac disease involves blood tests to detect antibodies related to gluten and biopsies of the small intestine to assess villi damage. It is crucial to undergo testing before eliminating gluten from the diet to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
What about Gluten Intolerance?
Gluten intolerance, also known as non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, shares similar symptoms with coeliac disease but does not involve an autoimmune response or intestinal damage. Approximately 1% of Australians have gluten intolerance, but many remain undiagnosed. A gluten-free diet trial supervised by a dietitian may be recommended to determine if symptoms improve.
Extreme Sensitivity to Gluten
Individuals with coeliac disease must adhere to a strict gluten-free diet as even small traces of gluten can trigger symptoms and cause intestinal damage. In contrast, those with gluten intolerance may experience temporary symptoms but do not suffer from the same level of sensitivity.
Should I Cut Out Gluten?
Avoiding gluten without a medical reason can lead to nutritional deficiencies as gluten-containing grains are rich in essential nutrients. It is essential to consult with a dietitian before making any dietary changes to ensure you are meeting your nutritional needs.
Seeking Medical Advice
If you experience symptoms like bloating, diarrhoea, or stomach pain after consuming gluten, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper testing and diagnosis. Self-diagnosing and eliminating gluten without guidance can have negative consequences on your health.
Written by Yasmine Probst, Professor, School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences, University of Wollongong, and Olivia Wills, Associate Lecturer, Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Wollongong
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here.
