In brief: Abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea or fatigue can have many causes. Before starting a gluten-free diet, it is important to distinguish coeliac disease, wheat allergy and other causes.
Key differences
| Problem | Mechanism | Diagnosis |
|---|---|---|
| Coeliac disease | Autoimmune | Antibodies, sometimes biopsy |
| Wheat allergy | Allergic | Allergy testing |
| Non-coeliac sensitivity | Not fully defined | Diagnosis of exclusion |
Keep eating gluten before testing
NHS notes that starting a gluten-free diet before evaluation can make coeliac testing inaccurate.[1]
Gluten-free is not automatically healthier
Gluten-free products can be lower in fibre or other nutrients. People who need a permanent gluten-free diet should choose balanced alternatives.
FAQ
Is spelt gluten-free?
No.
Can coeliac disease appear in adulthood?
Yes.
Is gluten-free healthier for everyone?
No.
Should gluten be stopped before testing?
No, not without medical advice.
Conclusion
Gluten-related symptoms need a precise diagnosis before long-term dietary restriction.
