For some with Crohn’s, eliminating or minimizing gluten may lead to fewer symptoms, but it’s possible that might be happening as a result of an undiagnosed gluten sensitivity, says George. If there’s a considerable improvement, you may be dealing with celiac disease, an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten that requires a strict gluten-free diet for life. See your doctor for a diagnosis if you think you may have either of these conditions.
“If you’re finding that you feel better on a gluten-free diet, it’s very important to rule out sensitivity or especially celiac disease, because that can help you manage your Crohn’s more effectively,” she says.
“Testing for celiac disease may become challenging if you’ve already stopped consuming gluten, so it’s recommended to continue eating gluten products until after you’ve had those tests,” George says.
If you do get tested and find out you don’t have a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, but that continuing to eat gluten prompts symptoms, then at least you know it’s those foods that are problematic for you personally — and not an underlying secondary condition.