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Treatment of Coeliac disease

Gluten as a protein is not essential to the diet and can be replaced by other foods.

Coeliac disease can be kept under control and further problems prevented by completely eliminating gluten and related proteins from the diet. Supplements of vitamins and minerals may also need to be taken for a short time to counter-act any previous deficiencies. There is a good range of gluten-free foods available as well as recipe books.

Improvements begin within days of starting a gluten-free diet. The small intestine is usually completely healed in 3 to 6 months; individuals start to regain lost weight and are able to lead a normal and healthy life.

Patients are advised to see a dietician for guidance on foods that are gluten-free and to monitor their progress carefully. Foods that contain wheat, barley and rye should be avoided. There is growing evidence that most adults with moderate coeliac disease can eat oats.

Since coeliac disease runs in families, relatives can have a blood test to check for antibodies.

As coeliac disease can lead to long-term complications, patients should regularly see their GP and visit the out-patient clinic every 6-12 months. A biopsy 4-6 months after beginning the gluten-free diet should show improvement in the small intestine. Regular tests for osteoporosis may be recommended for a minority of patients.

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