Information for the public

Information and support

Information and support

If you have been diagnosed with coeliac disease your healthcare professional should explain to you (and members of your family or your carers, if appropriate) that eating a gluten‑free diet is the medical treatment for coeliac disease. They should also give you information to help you with this, including information on:

  • where to find out about coeliac disease and the gluten‑free diet, including national and local coeliac support groups and specialist dietitians

  • which types of food contain gluten and suitable alternatives that you'll be able to eat without getting a reaction

  • understanding labels on food, such as whether something contains gluten

  • recipe ideas and cookbooks for gluten‑free meals

  • advice when eating out, travelling away from home, and travelling abroad

  • how to avoid cross‑contamination at home by keeping foods containing gluten away from other foods, and how to reduce the risk of eating gluten accidentally when eating out.

Diet

If you have been diagnosed with coeliac disease you will be advised to follow a gluten‑free diet for the rest of your life. Many naturally occurring foods, such as vegetables, don't normally contain gluten. Some man‑made foods that contain gluten, such as pasta, have gluten‑free alternatives that are available to buy. Most people with coeliac disease can eat gluten‑free oats. However, a small number of people may still be sensitive to oats because they contain a protein that is similar to gluten. Your doctor or specialist dietitian may advise you to stop eating gluten‑free oats depending on your symptoms and blood test results (see checking your condition).

People with coeliac disease sometimes don't absorb enough nutrients from their diet because the gluten has damaged their gut. But once someone has been on a gluten‑free diet for a while this shouldn't be a problem. This is because removing gluten from your diet can help to heal your gut. If you are thinking about taking vitamin or mineral supplements you should talk to a member of your healthcare team for specific advice on your needs. Your doctor may advise you to take specific supplements such as vitamin D or calcium to help keep your bones strong if you are not getting enough of these nutrients from your diet.

Questions about coeliac disease

  • Can you tell me more about coeliac disease?

  • Are there any support organisations in my local area?

  • Can you provide any information for my family/carers?

  • Should I make changes to my diet?

  • What will happen if I choose not to change my diet?

  • Information Standard