Roti, bread, and cereals are some of the common staples in India. They can be paired with many other foods and are quite filling and nutritious, if eaten in moderation. However, some individuals cannot tolerate them at all due to coeliac disease.
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition in which the small intestine does not respond well to gluten, a protein found in foods containing wheat, barley, or rye. It occurs when the body develops an immune response that attacks the small intestine and affects nutrition absorption, leading to various symptoms.
While some people believe that some amount of gluten consumption is safe for people with coeliac disease, in an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Pawan Rawal, Head Unit-1, Gastroenterology, Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon, disagrees and says, "People with coeliac disease cannot tolerate any amount of gluten. Even the smallest amount can trigger an immune response that damages the small intestine," demanding strict adherence to a gluten-free diet. Similar to such beliefs, there are various other misconceptions when it comes to coeliac disease, and Dr Rawal helps us bust some of the most common ones.
Also Read: Neha Dhupia On A Gluten-Free Diet: What Is It And Foods To Eat And Avoid
Myth 1: Coeliac Disease Is A Food Allergy
Dr Rawal emphasises that it is misleading to classify coeliac disease as a food allergy. While both conditions involve adverse reactions to food, coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, whereas food allergies are caused by an immune system overreaction to specific proteins in food.
Coeliac disease symptoms usually include:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhoea
- Weight loss
- Rash
- Headaches
- Joint pain
Food allergy symptoms can include:
- Itchy eyes
- Trouble breathing
- Anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction
Myth 2: Coeliac Disease Only Affects Children
Many people who have coeliac disease have not been diagnosed, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDKD). However, experts estimate that about one percent of people around the world have coeliac disease.
It is a common misconception that coeliac disease only affects children. However, according to Dr Rawal, the condition can affect anyone at any age. While it can manifest in childhood, coeliac disease is often diagnosed in adults. Symptoms can vary widely and may be subtle, leading to delayed diagnosis.
Myth 3: A Gluten-Free Diet Is A Fad Diet
A gluten-free diet eliminates foods containing gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and triticale. While some mistakenly adopt it as a fad diet, it is essential for individuals with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity. Dr Rawal describes it as a medical necessity for individuals with coeliac disease. For others, it may be beneficial for managing certain digestive issues or food sensitivities, but it's not a general weight loss or health improvement strategy.
Also Read: Celiac Disease And Fertility: Expert Explains Their Connection And How To Manage It
Hidden Sources Of Gluten
While some of the most common foods containing gluten include wheat and barley, there are some hidden sources people may overlook. These include:
- Processed foods: Many processed foods, such as sauces, soups, and salad dressings, may contain hidden gluten.
- Oats: While naturally gluten-free, oats can often be cross-contaminated with gluten during processing.
- Medicines and supplements: Some medications and supplements may contain gluten-derived ingredients.
How To Diagnose Coeliac Disease
Coeliac disease is diagnosed through a combination of blood tests, genetic testing, and endoscopy with biopsy, says Dr Rawal, adding that self-diagnosis and starting a gluten-free diet without medical testing can mask symptoms and delay proper diagnosis and treatment.
Therefore, it's essential to consult a doctor for accurate diagnosis and guidance on managing the condition.