Celiac Disease vs. Gluten Intolerance: What’s the Difference?

For most people, there’s no reason to give up gluten for good. But that’s not so easy for folks with two gluten-related medical conditions: celiac disease and gluten intolerance, according to Dr. Sarmed Sami, a gastroenterologist at Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of gluten-related issues, leading many people to question whether they might be affected by conditions like celiac disease or gluten intolerance. While both conditions involve sensitivity to gluten, they are distinct in their mechanisms, symptoms, and long-term implications. In this article, we will explore the key differences between celiac disease and gluten intolerance to help you better understand these often misunderstood conditions. Celiac Disease: An Autoimmune Disorder Gluten is a protein found in grains including wheat, barley and rye. In people with celiac disease, eating it triggers an autoimmune reaction that causes cell damage to the small intestine. That reaction can cause diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, bloating, anemia and lead to serious complications, Sami says. RELATED: What You Need To Know About Celiac Disease Symptoms of Celiac Disease Celiac disease can manifest with a wide range of symptoms, making it a challenging condition to diagnose. Some common symptoms include:...