You’ve been diagnosed with Celiac disease. Now what?

The lab results came in. Or, maybe you had a scope of some sort—a colonoscopy, or an endoscopy—and the test showed damage to the intestinal lining. Your doctor’s been in touch, and—surprise! You have celiac disease.

Now what?

First of all, let me say this is going to be tough. You’re headed out into the wild world of avoiding gluten. It’s not easy.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that is inherited. When people with celiac disease consume gluten, their immune system creates inflammation by attacking the gluten in the digestive tract.

The only treatment for Celiac disease is following a gluten-free diet.

What is gluten?

To avoid gluten, you need to know what it is, how to identify it, and places it may hide.

Gluten is a protein that can be found in numerous grains, such as wheat, barley, and rye. Be very careful about what you eat! It’s important to develop good habits while grocery shopping and dining out.

What happens if you eat gluten after going gluten-free?

That depends. Some people get very ill, and might feel the impact of the gluten for weeks. Other people with Celiac disease don’t have as much of an immune response. It really all depends on your body.