In recent years, the popularity of gluten-free diets has soared. While some adopt this lifestyle by choice, for others, such as those with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance, avoiding gluten is a medical necessity.
However, if you suspect you might have coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity, it’s crucial not to go gluten-free before consulting a doctor. Here’s why.
What is Coeliac Disease?
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition where the body reacts to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. For individuals with this condition, eating gluten triggers an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine, leading to symptoms like bloating, fatigue, diarrhoea, and nutrient deficiencies.
Why Testing Matters
Diagnosing coeliac disease involves specific blood tests and, in many cases, a biopsy of the small intestine. However, these tests are only accurate if you’re consuming gluten. If you’ve already eliminated gluten from your diet, your body may not produce the antibodies doctors are looking for, resulting in a false-negative result.
Without an accurate diagnosis, you might be left in limbo, unsure whether gluten is truly the cause of your symptoms. This could lead to unnecessary dietary restrictions or overlooking other potential health conditions.
The Risks of Self-Diagnosing
Switching to a gluten-free diet without medical advice can come with its own set of challenges:
1. Nutritional Deficiencies: Many gluten-free products lack fibre, iron, calcium, and B vitamins, which are often fortified in wheat-based foods.
2. Unnecessary Restrictions: You may find yourself cutting out foods you love unnecessarily, which can make social events and dining out more complicated.
3. Missed Diagnoses: Symptoms like bloating and fatigue could be caused by conditions other than coeliac disease, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or a food allergy.
What To Do If You Suspect Gluten Is a Problem
If you think gluten might be causing your symptoms, follow these steps:
1. See Your GP: Discuss your symptoms and request a blood test for coeliac disease.
2. Keep Eating Gluten: Continue consuming gluten daily until all necessary tests are completed. This might feel counterintuitive, but it’s essential for an accurate diagnosis.
3. Follow Medical Advice: If you’re diagnosed with coeliac disease, your doctor or a dietitian can guide you on managing a gluten-free diet safely and healthily.
The Bottom Line
While a gluten-free diet is vital for those with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity, it’s not a step to take lightly. Getting a proper diagnosis ensures that you receive the right treatment and avoid the risks of self-diagnosis. So, if you’re experiencing symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor and keep gluten on your plate until testing is complete.
Your health deserves the best care- and that starts with the right diagnosis.
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