Celiac Disease
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Nicole Byrom is an expert in celiac disease
Nicole's expertise in celiac disease is next to none! Not only is she an expert dietitian, but she also lives a gluten-free lifestyle, so can relate to everyone living with this disease!
If you have any other questions nicole@freshstartnutrition.ca
Helpful Videos from Celiac Canada and Nicole Byrom.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Celiac disease is a genetically predisposed autoimmune disease where the ingestion of gluten leads to intestinal damage. This damage in turn causes both short
and long term complications. The only treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet. Celiac disease is a life-long condition.
Celiac disease symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people experience digestive issues, while others have symptoms that affect other parts of the body. In some cases, there may be no obvious symptoms at all.
Testing for celiac disease starts with a simple blood test ordered by your healthcare provider. The test checks for specific antibodies that your body produces when reacting to gluten.
Important:
You must be eating gluten regularly before and during testing. If you remove gluten from your diet too soon, test results may not be accurate.
If the blood test suggests celiac disease, your doctor may recommend an endoscopy with a small intestine biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. This procedure allows specialists to check for intestinal damage caused by gluten.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and triticale. To determine if a product contains gluten, it’s important to read labels carefully and understand where gluten may be hidden.
When checking packaged foods:
Read the full ingredient list
Look for “Contains: Wheat” statements
Check for a certified gluten-free label
Watch for hidden sources like malt, brewer’s yeast, barley extract, and some modified food starch
Common foods that may contain gluten:
Bread, pasta, and baked goods
Cereals and crackers
Soy sauce
Sauces, gravies, and dressings
Processed or packaged snacks
Recovery after a celiac disease diagnosis varies from person to person.
Many people begin to feel better within a few weeks of starting a strict gluten-free diet. Symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, and fatigue often improve first.
However, healing inside the body takes longer.
Children may experience intestinal healing within several months.
Adults can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years for full intestinal recovery.
Factors that affect recovery include age, overall health, how long the condition went undiagnosed, and how strictly gluten is avoided.
Celiac disease requires a lifelong gluten-free diet. Even small amounts of gluten can cause damage, even if you don’t feel symptoms.
If you have been diagnosed with celiac disease—or think you might have it—the best first step is to speak with your healthcare provider. Your doctor can guide you through proper testing, monitor your recovery, and check for any nutritional deficiencies that may need treatment.
Working with a registered dietitian who has experience in gluten-free living can also make a big difference. They can help you understand food labels, create balanced meal plans, avoid cross-contamination, and make sure you are getting the nutrients your body needs.
Joining a support group can provide emotional support and practical advice from others who are living gluten-free. In addition, using trusted medical and celiac organization resources can help you stay informed and confident in managing your condition.