Coeliac Disease
Coeliac disease is an immune condition where eating gluten (wheat, barley, rye) damages the small‑intestine lining.
Overview
Coeliac disease is an immune condition where eating gluten (wheat, barley, rye) damages the small‑intestine lining. It affects about 1% of people worldwide; Australian estimates in adults are ~1.2% of men and 1.9% of women. If undiagnosed, risks include nutrient deficiencies, osteoporosis and, rarely, certain lymphomas. The only proven treatment is a strict, lifelong gluten‑free diet. CGH JournalWiley Online LibraryThe Lancet+1
Common Misunderstandings
Coeliac disease is often mistaken for “just a sensitivity,” so people can feel dismissed—especially if symptoms are subtle (e.g., tiredness, anaemia) rather than obvious gut issues. Sticking to a strict gluten‑free diet is hard work and social situations can be stressful. It’s common to feel frustrated if symptoms persist despite doing your best.
How is Coeliac Linked to Your Microbiome?
- People with coeliac disease often show altered gut bacteria (lower diversity; fewer helpful short‑chain‑fatty‑acid producers). Dysbiosis is thought to contribute to how the immune system reacts to gluten in those with genetic risk. BMJ Nutrition, De Gruyter Brill
- The microbiome may help explain why not everyone with coeliac‑risk genes develops disease and why symptoms differ between people. The Lancet, Frontiers
- Strict gluten avoidance remains first‑line care, but research is exploring microbiome‑targeted therapies to support remission and symptom control. BMJ Nutrition
Symptoms
Bloating
Diarrhoea
Constipation
Abdominal pain
Iron-deficiency anaemia
Fatigue
Brain fog
Unintended weight loss
Mouth ulcers
Skin rash
Low bone density
The Microbiome Clinic™
Our treatment approach for Coeliac Disease includes:
Gut Microbiome Test
Profile the gut to identify dysbiosis that may be affecting symptoms or treatment using the Gut Microbiome Test.
Targeted Antimicrobial Strategies
Antibiotics and plant-based or pharmaceutical antimicrobials (where appropriate) to reduce the overgrown population of unwanted bacteria in the gut.
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Targeted probiotics and prebiotics are introduced slowly to restore balance and biodiversity of microbes in the gut without fuelling overgrowth.
Individualised Nutrition Plans
Nutrition strategies to support recovery and enhance your overall health such as a tailored low-FODMAP diet or fibre consumptions strategies.
Suspect you might have Coeliac Disease?
