Treatment of Coeliac Disease
Treatment of coeliac disease revolves entirely around maintaining a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. There is currently no medication or cure for coeliac disease, but dietary intervention is highly effective in healing the intestinal lining and relieving symptoms. Once gluten is removed from the diet, inflammation decreases, nutrient absorption improves, and overall health is restored in most individuals.
A gluten-free diet eliminates all foods containing wheat, barley, and rye. This includes obvious sources like bread, pasta, and baked goods, as well as less obvious ones like soups, sauces, processed meats, and even medications or supplements. Oats may be tolerated by some people with coeliac disease, but only if they are certified gluten-free and not contaminated during processing.
Adherence must be strict — even small amounts of gluten can trigger immune activity and damage. Accidental exposure is common during social events, restaurant meals, or when handling foods with hidden gluten. For this reason, label-reading becomes essential. People with coeliac disease must learn to identify ingredient lists for terms like malt, modified starch, and hydrolysed vegetable protein.
Treatment of Coeliac Disease
Working with a registered dietitian experienced in coeliac disease is crucial. They can help with meal planning, label interpretation, and ensuring nutritional adequacy. Many individuals newly diagnosed are deficient in iron, calcium, folate, B12, and vitamin D, all of which may require temporary supplementation.
Support groups and coeliac associations also play an important role, providing emotional encouragement, access to resources, and community awareness. The psychological burden of a restricted diet can be significant, especially in social and cultural contexts where food is central. Peer support reduces isolation and empowers individuals to manage their condition confidently.
In rare cases where symptoms persist despite a gluten-free diet, other conditions must be considered. These include refractory coeliac disease, microscopic colitis, or inadvertent gluten consumption. Refractory coeliac disease is treated under specialist care and may require immunosuppressive therapy.
Treatment of Coeliac Disease
Long-term follow-up is essential. Patients should be monitored annually or biannually to assess nutritional status, symptom control, and adherence. Repeat antibody tests help determine whether gluten is being successfully avoided, while bone density scans may be recommended every few years to assess osteoporosis risk.
The treatment of coeliac disease is highly effective when managed properly. Most individuals feel better within weeks of dietary change, and the small intestine can begin healing within 3 to 6 months in children and up to 2 years in adults. Ongoing education, support, and vigilance are key to maintaining health.
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