Design elements: Getty Images.

Design: Cassie Basford.

So, what exactly is celiac disease, and how do you know if you have it?

a photo of a woman touching her stomach in pain with a twisted fork overlaid

Photo:Design elements: Getty Images. Design: Cassie Basford.

Celiac Disease versus Gluten IntoleranceWhats the Difference?

Read on to learn more about each.

Based on your initial bloodwork, your doctor can also order follow-up testing if something isnt clear.

It is essential to continue eating gluten-containing foods before getting your blood drawn.

Thats because eliminating gluten from your diet prematurely will affect your test results and can delay a correct diagnosis.

They may also complete a biopsy to confirm celiac.

That said, not everyone who has one of these gene variants will end up developing celiac disease.

If your symptoms improve, you may have a non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

Management and Treatment of Celiac Disease

The primary treatment for celiac disease is following a gluten-free diet.

In addition to the obvious, there aresome surprising foods that may contain gluten.

Always read the ingredients list and confirm that any packaged food you buy is processed in a gluten-free facility.

Even the smallest amounts of gluten exposure from cross-contamination may be detrimental enough to damage the intestine.

Symptoms of celiac disease can be similar to those of other health conditions.

Working with a registered dietitian can help you eat and live well while managing celiac.

EatingWell.com, May 2024

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