Celiac Disease 101: Signs, Testing, and What to Do Next Could Gluten Be Making You Sick? Here's What You Need to Know About Celiac Disease

Are you struggling with digestive issues, fatigue, or brain fog but don't know why? You might have celiac disease, a condition that affects 1 in 100 people worldwide—but shockingly, most people remain undiagnosed. If gluten is harming your health, it's time to take action.

In this post, we'll cover: ✅ What celiac disease is and how it affects the body ✅ Common symptoms (including the hidden ones most doctors miss!) ✅ How to get tested for celiac disease ✅ The first steps to take if you're diagnosed

Let's dive in!

What Is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder, not just a food allergy. When someone with celiac disease eats gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye), their immune system attacks the small intestine, causing inflammation and damage to the villi—tiny structures responsible for nutrient absorption. Over time, this leads to nutrient deficiencies, digestive issues, and serious long-term health problems.

Unlike gluten sensitivity, which causes discomfort without damaging the intestine, celiac disease is permanent and requires strict, lifelong avoidance of gluten.

Common Symptoms of Celiac Disease

Celiac disease doesn't look the same for everyone. Some people experience classic digestive symptoms, while others have silent celiac disease, meaning they have no obvious stomach issues but still suffer from long-term damage.

Here are some key symptoms to watch for:

🚨 Digestive Symptoms

• Chronic bloating and gas
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Nausea and stomach pain

🚨 Non-Digestive Symptoms

• Brain fog and memory issues
• Fatigue, even after a full night's sleep
• Joint pain and inflammation
• Anemia (iron deficiency)
• Skin rashes (dermatitis herpetiformis)
• Infertility and hormone imbalances

If you have any of these symptoms, it's time to consider celiac disease testing.

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How to Get Tested for Celiac Disease

If you suspect you have celiac disease, DO NOT go gluten-free before testing—this can cause false negative results.

Step 1: Blood Test – Ask your doctor for a tTG-IgA test, the most common screening test for celiac disease. Step 2: Endoscopy – If your blood test is positive, the next step is a biopsy to confirm damage in your small intestine. Step 3: Diagnosis & Next Steps – If you're diagnosed, the only treatment is a strict gluten-free diet for life.

The good news? Removing gluten can be life-changing. Within weeks, many people notice higher energy levels, improved digestion, and reduced inflammation!

Your Next Steps: Making the Gluten-Free Transition Easier

Feeling overwhelmed? You don't have to do this alone!

The Gluten-Free Transformation Program is designed to **help you navigate gluten-free living