The NHS explains that coeliac disease is a condition where your immune system attacks your own tissues when you eat gluten. It causes damage to the lining of the gut, meaning the body can’t properly absorb nutrients from food. It is one of the most common types of food allergy, that can potentially lead to symptoms that are serious or life-threatening if not treated.
How common is it?
1 in 100 people are thought to have coeliac disease in the UK, yet only 36% are diagnosed. This means around 500,000 who have the disease aren’t aware of it.
What are the symptoms?
There are a range of symptoms from mild to severe which can include bloating, diarrhoea, wind, mouth ulcers and sudden or unexpected weight loss.
What are the risk factors?
It is not known exactly what causes coeliac disease, but things such as family history, environmental factors and other health conditions such as type 1 diabetes and thyroid conditions can put you at higher risk.
What treatment is available?
Once diagnosed with coeliac disease the only treatment is a gluten-free diet. Once gluten is removed from the diet you should start to feel better. Find other tips at Coeliac UK.
What foods can trigger symptoms?
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. It is used in foods such as bread, pasta, cakes, pastries, cereals, biscuits crackers and pies. Some people are also sensitive to oats.
How is it diagnosed?
A blood test can check for antibodies that are usually present, although not everyone with the disease will have them. You will need to keep eating gluten while being tested to ensure the results are accurate.
Further support
Is it Coeliac Disease Online self assessment if you think you have symptoms
Coeliac UK – Find information and support, as well as access to a helpline
NHS – General information about this disease from symptoms to treatment
Guts UK – Guidance and support on different digestive diseases
BBC Food – Gluten-free recipe ideas
Ref: WPW0229 this information was reviewed February 2025.
