Gluten-free diet as therapy

In order to ensure an accurate diagnosis, it is imperative that the patient does not initiate a gluten-free diet until a final diagnosis is obtained. Currently the only treatment for coeliac disease is lifelong strict adherence to a gluten-free diet. Strict adherence to the diet and careful monitoring of ingredients, food preparation, and reading of labels will help avoid any potential cross contamination and unintentional ingestion of gluten. In the case of non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, the initial treatment is a gluten-free diet. After a period of time following a gluten-free diet, individuals with non-coeliac gluten sensitivity may choose to consider reintroducing a small amount of gluten in to their diet under the guidance of a healthcare professional team. Those patients with a diagnosis of wheat allergy will require a wheat free diet but may be able to consider reintroduction at a later date, under the supervision of their healthcare professional team, depending on the nature and severity of their symptoms.

Implementation of a gluten-free diet by diagnosis

Gluten-free diet for coeliac disease

Currently the only therapy for coeliac disease is a strict lifelong gluten-free diet. If coeliac disease is not treated, it can lead to the development of other conditions, secondary symptoms, and increased risk of long term complications. Regular follow-ups with a health care professional are recommended to assess any changes that would affect the overall health and quality of life of the patient and prevent any nutritional deficiencies and complications.

Consultation with a specialist dietitian is the key to health and compliance

The transition to a gluten-free diet, may seem daunting for patients at first. A consultation with a suitably experienced dietitian is the key to health and compliance with the gluten-free dietary pattern. The dietitian will be able to guide patients through the transition to a healthy gluten-free diet.  The session should include an in-depth assessment of current intake patterns. Tailoring advice to suit food preferences, dining out and social eating patterns is crucial in order to individualise recommendations for patients and their families. Practical resources and materials should be provided to patients in order to support compliance. For younger patients, the education and support offered might need to extend further, including consideration of other care givers – e.g nursery, school, college, friends and extended family.

Annual review

NICE Clinical Guidelines recommend that all coeliac patients are offered an annual review during which they should be provided with specialist dietetic and nutritional advice [1].