Coeliac Disease
Coeliac disease is becoming an increasingly recognised diagnosis as an autoimmune disorder that results in a permanent intolerance to gluten. It is a multisystem disorder that occurs as a result of ingestion of gluten causing an immune response within the body. Currently a strict gluten-free diet is the only recommended treatment for coeliac disease. A strict gluten free diet can be challenging, and it is important to ensure you are receiving adequate nutrition and education to support your management of coeliac disease. Along with early diagnosis and treatment, regular visits with a dietitian are an essential part of management to prevent malnutrition from avoiding certain foods and to ensure nutritional adequacy in one’s diet. A dietitian can also provide education around food allergen labelling, meal planning, assistance with adapting to a gluten free lifestyle and comprehensive nutrition education.