Does nutrition counselling treat coeliac disease?

Coeliac disease is an immune reaction to gluten that can damage the small bowel. A dietitian can explain where gluten is found, help you choose naturally gluten-free foods and reduce cross-contact in kitchens, restaurants and shared meals. They can also review fibre, iron, calcium and other nutritional needs while symptoms and absorption recover.

Do not start a gluten-free diet before speaking with a clinician if coeliac disease has not been confirmed, because testing may be affected. After diagnosis, follow the advised gluten-free plan consistently and check labels, sauces, seasonings and shared cooking equipment. Keep follow-up appointments so symptoms, nutritional status and response to the diet can be reviewed.

Contact your care team if diarrhoea, abdominal pain, fatigue or weight loss continues despite following the plan, or if you are struggling to eat enough. Seek urgent care for severe dehydration, vomiting that prevents fluids, intense abdominal pain, black stools or blood in the stool. Ongoing symptoms may reflect accidental gluten exposure or another problem needing assessment.

What testing is needed before changing my diet? How can I check for nutritional deficiencies, and when should I meet a dietitian for label and cross-contact advice?