Gluten sensitivity, intolerance, and Celiac Disease. What’s the difference and how can I tell?

Gluten sensitivity, gluten intolerance, and Celiac Disease are all related conditions, but they differ in their mechanisms and severity.

Gluten Sensitivity (Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity):

This condition refers to adverse reactions to gluten in individuals who do not have Celiac Disease or wheat allergy.

Symptoms can include bloating, abdominal pain, fatigue, and diarrhea, similar to those of Celiac Disease, but without the autoimmune response or damage to the small intestine.

Diagnosis is often made by excluding Celiac Disease and wheat allergy through testing and observing symptom improvement on a gluten-free diet.

Gluten Intolerance:

The term "gluten intolerance" is often used interchangeably with "gluten sensitivity."

Some people may use it to describe milder forms of gluten-related symptoms that don't fit the criteria for Celiac Disease but still cause discomfort.

Celiac Disease:

Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten in genetically predisposed individuals.

When someone with Celiac Disease consumes gluten, their immune system reacts by damaging the small intestine's lining, leading to malabsorption of nutrients.

Symptoms can vary widely and may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, fatigue, weight loss, anemia, and even neurological symptoms.

Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to detect specific antibodies and confirmation via a small intestine biopsy.

Treatment involves strict adherence to a gluten-free diet for life to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

It's essential to consult a healthcare professional to differentiate between these conditions. They can perform the necessary tests and evaluations to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. If you suspect gluten may be causing issues, keeping a food diary and noting your symptoms can also provide valuable information to share with your doctor.