Gluten-free living is often viewed as a lifestyle trend, but for many individuals it is a strict medical requirement. According to Dr Kunal Sood, an anaesthesiologist and interventional pain medicine specialist, certain people develop a severe autoimmune reaction when they consume gluten — a reaction that can damage the small intestine and disrupt nutrient absorption. For those with this condition, even a tiny crumb of gluten can trigger serious health issues.
Dr Sood explains that this condition, known as coeliac disease, causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the lining of the small intestine when gluten from wheat, barley or rye is ingested. The resulting damage affects the villi — the small, finger-like structures responsible for absorbing nutrients — leaving the body unable to properly take in vitamins and minerals. What might seem like an ordinary piece of bread to most people can become a painful and harmful trigger for someone with coeliac disease.
The symptoms can vary widely. While many individuals experience digestive issues such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhoea or unexplained weight loss, others might show non-digestive signs like fatigue, anaemia, bone issues or skin problems. Some people do not experience any stomach-related symptoms at all, making the condition even more challenging to identify without medical testing.
Diagnosis typically begins with blood tests that detect coeliac-related antibodies, followed by an intestinal biopsy to confirm damage to the villi. Dr Sood emphasises that the only effective treatment is a strict lifelong gluten-free diet. Even tiny amounts of gluten — including crumbs from cross-contaminated surfaces or hidden ingredients — can prevent intestinal healing. With complete adherence to a gluten-free diet, most individuals can heal and regain normal nutrient absorption.
This information, based on Dr Sood’s educational content shared on social media, highlights why a gluten-free diet is not optional for people with coeliac disease and why awareness is essential for recognising the seriousness of this autoimmune condition.
