34. Do you Need to Cut Out Gluten for IBS? What about Celiac or Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity?

Send us Fan Mail Gluten gets blamed for countless digestive symptoms, but is it really the problem? In this episode, we explore the difference between celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity (non-celiac wheat sensitivity), and why some people who feel better gluten-free may actually be reacting to something else. I’m joined by Dr. Stefano Guandalini, co-founder of the University of Chicago’s Celiac Disease Center, and Associate Professor Jessica Biesiekierski, a leading researcher in non-celiac gluten sensitivity. We cover celiac symptoms and diagnosis, the role of blood tests and biopsies. Gluten, fructans (FODMAP), the placebo and nocebo effect, and why “non-celiac gluten sensitivity” may not be the most accurate term. We also discuss why people often eliminate gluten and other foods without ever identifying what’s actually causing their symptoms. **In this episode, we discuss:** - Why celiac disease is so often missed, even by doctors - How celiac disease is diagnosed through blood testing and biopsy - What the research really shows about gluten versus fructans (FODMAP) and other triggers - The role of the gut-brain connection in non-celiac gluten sensitivity - Why cutting out food before testing can make diagnosis harder If you've ever wondered whether gluten is really the issue, or suspected it might be something else in your diet, this conversation will give you a much clearer picture. **Timestamps:** 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guests 05:50 Celiac disease prevalence and why rates are rising 09:32 Why celiac disease is so difficult to diagnose 13:19 Celiac disease symptoms, gastrointestinal and beyond 16:04 How celiac disease is diagnosed: blood tests and biopsy 20:43 What to do if you're already gluten-free before getting tested 22:45 Why you shouldn't eliminate gluten before celiac testing 25:33 What is non-celiac gluten sensitivity 31:08 What the research shows about gluten-specific reactions 32:54 Why "gluten sensitivity" may be the wrong term 40:41 Why people feel better gluten-free, even without a gluten reaction 46:15 The nocebo effect and the gut-brain connection explained 52:51 A new research study recruiting IBS patients **Get our help:** 🌟 Join IBS Freedom Program - https://ibsdietitian.com/group-program/ 👩🏻‍⚕️ Make an appointment https://ibsdietitian.com/1-1-appointments/ 🖥️ Affordable IBS Self-Paced Course https://ibsdietitian.com/ibs-freedom/ **🔔 Stay Connected & Get More Support** 📷 Follow us on Instagram: @ibs.dietitian 💬 Join our Facebook Community: IBS Support For Women **Free Resources:** 🖥️ Free IBS Relief Masterclass: https://ibsdietitian.com/masterclass 📋 Free Symptom Tracker – Start tracking your symptoms today: https://poopedia.org/resources 🔗 Download your FREE Low FODMAP Starter Guide (grocery list, meal plan, and food swaps): https://ibsdietitian.com/resources/