Two common conditions associated with gluten related health conditions are celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). While they share similar symptoms, they are very different conditions. Let’s break it down:
 

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder. When someone with celiac disease eats gluten, their immune system mistakenly attacks the small intestine. This leads to inflammation and damage to the lining of the intestine, making it harder for the body to absorb nutrients, leading to serious chronic illnesses. 
 

Key points about celiac disease:

• Autoimmune response: The body’s immune system attacks its own intestine after gluten is consumed.

• Long-term damage: If left untreated, celiac disease can cause serious health problems like malnutrition, osteoporosis, and even an increased risk of some cancers (Ratner, 2022).

• Diagnosis: Celiac disease is diagnosed through blood tests and sometimes a biopsy of the intestine.

• Treatment: The only effective treatment is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet.

• About 1% of the world population is known to have celiac disease. 

• Celiac disease can develop in adulthood, and people may not be aware of having the condition.

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What is Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)?

Non-celiac gluten sensitivity is less understood than celiac disease. People with NCGS experience symptoms similar to celiac disease – like stomach pain, bloating, and fatigue – but their immune system doesn’t attack the intestine, and they don’t show the damage seen in celiac disease. Unlike celiac disease, there is no clear test to diagnose NCGS, and researchers are still studying why it happens.
 

Key points about NCGS:

• No autoimmune response: Unlike celiac disease, there’s no damage to the intestine or immune system attack.

• Symptoms: Individuals with NCGS may experience bloating, headaches, brain fog, or stomach discomfort after eating gluten.

• Diagnosis: There is no specific test for NCGS, so it’s typically diagnosed by ruling out celiac disease and other conditions.

• Treatment: The most effective treatment is to remove gluten from the diet, which can relieve symptoms.

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Key Differences:​

• Celiac disease involves an autoimmune reaction, while NCGS doesn’t.

• Celiac disease causes intestinal damage, but NCGS does not.

• Celiac disease can be diagnosed with tests, but NCGS is more of a process of elimination.

 

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Conclusion

​As there is no biomarker to diagnose NCGS, doctors are divided over the recognition and cause of this condition. There is growing research to show that beyond the gluten, other components found in wheat and related grains may be contributing to the symptoms (Fasano, 2015). Whatever the case, my experience tells me not to ignore the warning signs that your body is sending to you. If you suspect that you have NCGS and want to adopt a gluten-free or low-gluten diet, read our How to Ungluten: Food Guide. 

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Read Related: Gluten, Health & Chronic Illnesses