Coeilac Disease

This is when the immune system is triggered to react to gluten (wheat) in the diet. It results in destruction in the lining of the small bowel this leads to an impaired ability to absorb nutrients and minerals.

Symptoms can include bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, weight loss and anaemia. Blood tests can suggest that coeliac disease may be the diagnosis but an endoscopy is required to confirm the diagnosis.

Once confirmed a referral to a dietician will be made to establish a lifelong wheat free diet, this is usually the only treatment required. Symptoms usually respond rapidly.

After diagnosis further monitoring blood tests are required along with a bone scan as coeliac patients are at risk of osteoporosis.

A good source of local gluten free products can be found at Welsh Gluten Free Bakery Products

This is a good source of information for coeliac: www.coeliac.org.uk