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Gluten-free diet: What has worked? Your tips
Digestive Health | Last Active: Nov 24, 2022 | Replies (120)Comment receiving replies
@sueinmn @therjes I have had a lactose intolerance for a while now, probably triggered by the immunosuppressants I have to take. Recently I have wondered if I may now also have a gluten intolerance. The other day I had a breakfast with nothing dairy in it, but I had a low cal English muffin with it and had a problem afterward.
Are the terms gluten intolerance and celiac disease synonymous?
We went out to dinner last night to one of my favorite restaurants. It is an upscale restaurant and they are great about accommodating dietary restrictions. I told them I am lactose intolerant but I did not mention gluten since I am not yet sure. I doubt there was anything in my dinner that had gluten in it, and thankfully I have not had any reaction. Just trying to stay lactose-free is a challenge. I also have to keep my sodium low!
JK
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Hi! No, gluten intolerance and Celiac are NOT the same at all actually. Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disease, like Type 1 Diabetes. It is when your body creates an immune response to gluten, which is the protein in wheat, barley and rye. Your body attacks the villi in your intestines, which allow you to absorb nutrients from food. Gluten intolerance can produce very similar symptoms but the key is no damage is done to the gut. It just feels awful. The only way yo know which you might have is to be tested for Celiac. First s blood test to see if you have elevated tTg antibody levels. If yes, then referral to a GI specialist for a gastroscopy and biopsy of the intestine. This will rule it in or out, based on looking for those damaged villi. A gluten free diet for life is the only treatment. Once you get a diagnosis you will st least know what is happening!
Good luck!
Theresa