Back to Education Hub
HEALTH GUIDE

Understanding Coeliac Disease

Everything you need to know about coeliac disease - from diagnosis to living your best gluten-free life. Knowledge is power when managing this condition.

Read Our Blog
Healthy meal prep ideas, containers, lunchboxes with variety of trendy food, salmon fish with quinoa and avocado, eggs, asparagus, kale, sweet potato, chicken, barley, zucchini. White background.

What is Coeliac Disease?

Coeliac disease is a serious autoimmune condition where eating gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine. It affects about 1 in 100 people, though many remain undiagnosed.

Genetic Condition

Coeliac disease runs in families. If a close relative has it, your risk is 1 in 10.

Autoimmune Response

The immune system attacks the intestinal lining when gluten is consumed.

Lifelong Management

There's no cure, but a strict gluten-free diet allows the gut to heal.

Recognising the Symptoms

Digestive Symptoms

  • Bloating and gas
  • Diarrhoea or constipation
  • Stomach pain and cramping
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Pale, foul-smelling stools

Non-Digestive Symptoms

  • Extreme fatigue
  • Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
  • Joint and bone pain
  • Skin rashes (dermatitis herpetiformis)
  • Iron-deficiency anaemia

Getting Diagnosed

1

Blood Test

Your GP tests for coeliac antibodies. You must be eating gluten for accurate results.

2

Referral

If blood tests are positive, you'll be referred to a gastroenterologist.

3

Endoscopy

A small camera examines your intestine and takes biopsies to confirm damage.

4

Dietitian

After diagnosis, you'll work with a dietitian to learn the gluten-free diet.

Important: Don't go gluten-free before testing! This can cause false negative results.

Living Gluten-Free

Safe to Eat

  • • Fresh meat, fish, poultry
  • • Fruits and vegetables
  • • Rice, quinoa, potatoes
  • • Eggs and dairy
  • • Beans and legumes
  • • Certified gluten-free oats

Must Avoid

  • • Wheat, barley, rye
  • • Regular bread and pasta
  • • Most cereals
  • • Beer and lager
  • • Many sauces and gravies
  • • Breaded/battered foods

Check Labels

  • • Processed foods
  • • Soy sauce (often has wheat)
  • • Soups and stocks
  • • Some medications
  • • Lip balms and cosmetics
  • • Communion wafers

Avoiding Cross-Contamination

Even tiny amounts of gluten can cause damage. Here's how to stay safe:

Separate Utensils

Use dedicated cutting boards, toasters, and colanders

Clean Surfaces

Wipe down counters and use clean sponges

Wash Hands

After handling gluten and before preparing GF food

Store Separately

Keep GF foods in sealed containers on separate shelves

You're Not Alone

FISTPUMP was founded by someone who knows coeliac disease firsthand. Join our community and find support on your journey.