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Ever feel bloated, sluggish, or just off after a bowl of pasta or a warm slice of sourdough? For some, it’s a fleeting discomfort, but if these symptoms keep showing up, your body might be sounding the alarm about gluten. Two conditions often come up: celiac disease, a serious autoimmune disorder where gluten, a protein in wheat, barley, and rye triggers the immune system to attack the small intestine, and non-celiac gluten sensitivity, which brings similar discomfort without the lasting damage.
Celiac disease isn’t just a buzzword or a trendy diet excuse. It’s a serious autoimmune condition that affects about 1 in 70 Australians, yet up to 80% of those cases slip under the radar, according to Coeliac Australia. While sensitivity might leave you feeling rough, untreated celiac disease can lead to serious risks like malnutrition or osteoporosis.
In the following blog we’ll dive into what’s really going on when gluten becomes your body’s nemesis, how to spot the signs, and what you can do to take back control.
What is Celiac Disease?
According to Harvard Health Publishing, celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects around 1% of the global population. When someone with celiac disease eats gluten their immune system mistakenly attacks the small intestine, damaging the villi. These tiny, finger-like projections are essential for absorbing nutrients from food.
When the villi are compromised, nutrient absorption is impaired, which can lead to serious health problems over time, including malnutrition, osteoporosis, infertility, and even neurological conditions.
Despite its prevalence, celiac disease is still widely underdiagnosed. The Celiac Disease Foundation estimates that around 80% of those affected haven’t been formally diagnosed. In Australia, about 1 in 70 people are thought to have celiac disease, but Coeliac Australia reports that the vast majority of these cases go undetected.
Genetics play a significant role in celiac disease, with most people who develop the condition carrying the HLA‑DQ2 or HLA‑DQ8 genes, according to leading research from organisations like the Celiac Disease Foundation. Still, the condition can be triggered later in life by environmental factors such as stress, infection, surgery, or other major life events. It may sound confronting, but getting the right diagnosis is a crucial first step towards feeling better and taking control of your health.
The Sneaky Signs of Celiac Disease
Celiac disease can be notoriously difficult to recognise. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms vary widely - not just from person to person, but also across age groups and genders. That’s because celiac disease doesn’t always present in obvious ways. In fact, it’s often mistaken for other conditions like IBS, chronic fatigue, or even stress-related issues.
For some, it shows up in the gut. For others, it’s all about brain fog, joint pain, or unexplained fatigue. The symptoms don’t always scream “gluten’s to blame,” which is why so many cases go undiagnosed. Here’s what the Celiac Disease Foundation advises to keep an eye on:
Digestive Symptoms:
- Bloating and gas
- Chronic diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation in some cases
Non-Digestive Symptoms:
- Fatigue and persistent low energy
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Headaches and migraines
- Skin rashes, particularly dermatitis herpetiformis (an itchy, blistering skin condition)
- Iron-deficiency anemia due to poor nutrient absorption ( Read HIF’s Health Hub article about Iron deficiency to learn more).
- Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
- Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
Because these symptoms overlap with so many other conditions, it’s easy to brush them off. However, if they’re sticking around, it’s worth taking the time to listen to your body.
Celiac Disease Treatments
Recovery from celiac disease varies significantly. According to the National Celiac Association, many people begin noticing improvements within weeks to months on a strict gluten‑free diet, though full intestinal healing can take up to two years for some . Data from adult studies further show that only 8–18% achieve complete mucosal recovery around 16–24 months, while children tend to recover faster—about 74% regain normal intestinal lining within two years
Complete avoidance of gluten is essential for celiac disease. Even trace amounts can trigger an autoimmune response and cause lasting damage—unlike non‑celiac gluten sensitivity, where occasional gluten may not be as harmful .
Self-Care & Living Well with Celiac Disease
Living with celiac disease goes beyond cutting gluten from your plate, it's a lifestyle change that requires planning, support, and resilience. From shopping to socialising, daily life can present unexpected challenges that impact both your physical and emotional wellbeing.
Tips for Navigating Everyday Gluten-Free Life
One of the most important tools in managing celiac disease is knowledge. Learning to read food labels with precision is key, as gluten can be hidden in less obvious ingredients like malt extract, modified starches, and thickeners. Cross-contamination is another concern - shared kitchen spaces, toasters, or even restaurant fryers can pose a risk if not properly managed.
Fortunately, there are helpful resources to make this process easier. In Australia, the Coeliac Australia app offers guidance on more than 800 ingredients and 300 food additives, letting users know whether they are safe for a gluten-free diet. For added convenience, the GlutenSwitch app allows you to scan barcodes using your phone to quickly check a product’s gluten status, and even suggests gluten-free alternatives.
Supporting Emotional Wellbeing
Celiac disease can sometimes take a toll on your mental health. According to research published in the Journal of Gastroenterology, people with celiac disease may experience higher rates of anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal - particularly in the early stages of diagnosis.
Building a strong support network is essential when managing celiac disease - not just for dietary guidance, but for emotional wellbeing too. Whether it’s joining a local support group, finding community online, or working with a dietitian or mental health professional, the right support can make you feel more empowered and less alone. Small steps like planning meals ahead, celebrating gluten-free wins, and connecting with others on a similar journey can have a meaningful impact.
How HIF Supports Members with Celiac Disease
At HIF, we recognise that managing a lifelong condition like celiac disease requires more than just dietary changes—it’s about whole-person support. That’s why we offer a range of programs and benefits to help members live well, both physically and mentally.
- Mental Health Hub: Access expert articles, practical tips, and tools for building resilience and managing stress through our Mental Health Hub.
- Mental Health Support Programs: Eligible members can benefit from guided support through our mental health programs, which offer tailored assistance for anxiety, depression, and other challenges that may arise when living with a chronic condition.
- Dietetics Benefits: HIF Extras Cover includes benefits for consultations with accredited practising dietitians—ideal for navigating gluten-free nutrition with confidence.
- Telehealth Services: Depending on your cover, you may also have access to telehealth consultations, making it easier to connect with professionals from the comfort of your home.
Together, these services reflect HIF’s commitment to holistic, member-first care.
If some of the symptoms or experiences mentioned here sound familiar, it could be worth having a conversation with your GP or a healthcare professional. Celiac disease can be difficult to pinpoint because its symptoms often overlap with other conditions, but getting a proper diagnosis is the first step toward feeling better.
Trust your instincts. If your body isn't reacting well to gluten and you’re constantly feeling unwell, don’t ignore it. Seeking medical advice can help you gain clarity, start healing, and take control of your health—one step at a time.
FAQS: All things Celiac Disease
Can celiac disease develop later in life?
Yes. According to New Life Nutrition Australia, celiac disease can be triggered by stress, illness, surgery, or hormonal changes - even if you've eaten gluten your entire life without issue.
Is gluten sensitivity the same as celiac disease?
No. Gluten sensitivity does not cause damage to the small intestine and does not involve an autoimmune response. It shares similar symptoms but requires different management.
What happens if I ignore celiac disease?
Untreated celiac disease can lead to severe complications, including malnutrition, infertility, neurological conditions, osteoporosis, and an increased risk of intestinal lymphoma.
Do I need to see a dietitian?
Yes, especially after diagnosis. A dietitian can help tailor a balanced, nutrient-rich gluten-free diet and guide you through hidden sources of gluten.
Can celiac disease cause nutrient deficiencies?
Yes. Because celiac disease damages the small intestine, it can interfere with the absorption of important nutrients such as iron, calcium, vitamin D, and B vitamins. This can lead to issues like anemia, osteoporosis, and fatigue if left untreated.