Celiac Disease vs. Gluten Intolerance vs. Wheat Allergies

Are you confused by the different terms for certain food allergies? You are not alone. These terms are sometimes interchanged while describing each other which adds to the confusion. Celiac disease, wheat allergy, and gluten-intolerance while treated similarly, are not the same conditions. Consequently, it is very important for a person to know which condition they have. Your family health care provider can help you evaluate and diagnose your specific condition.

What Is Celiac Disease? Celiac disease is an auto-immune disease, which means your body starts attacking itself and its organs. It is usually triggered by an exposure to gluten but only if you are genetically programmed to have celiac disease. For example, many undiagnosed cases have led to people getting their gall bladders and spleens removed because the doctor thought those organs were malfunctioning, when in reality, they were being attacked. Celiac disease also puts the patient at risk for developing other autoimmune conditions such as thyroid disease, type 1 diabetes and liver diseases. The good news is, it is the only auto-immune disease with a cure. The only known cure? A drastic dietary change which means you must avoid all gluten at all times.

What is Gluten? Gluten is a special type of protein found commonly in rye, wheat, and barley. It is found in most all types of cereals and in many types of bread. Some examples of grains that do NOT have gluten include wild rice, corn, buckwheat, millet, oats, soybeans and quinoa.

What is Gluten Intolerance ? Gluten intolerance is not an autoimmune disease and can happen to anyone, especially if you already have allergies. This is managed also by avoiding glutens. You can eat some gluten-containing foods if you find you can manage them in small quantities.

What is Wheat Allergy? Wheat allergy if one of the top 8 food allergies in the United States and can have severe allergic reactions after exposure. This allergy is not an autoimmune condition like celiac disease. The immune system activation is different from the branch that is responsible for the autoimmune reaction of celiac disease.

In general, once the offending foods are removed from the diet, the symptoms from food allergies and intolerances can be resolved. The symptoms of these conditions are multiple and varied. It is best to speak with your health care provider and be tested if you think you may have one of these conditions. If your student has any of these allergies or conditions, please let the school nurse know.