Myths About Coeliac Disease

Let’s be honest—coeliac disease is one of the most misunderstood health conditions out there. If you have it, you’ve probably heard things like, “A little gluten won’t hurt,” or “Isn’t that just a food preference?” It’s neither.

One of the biggest myths about coeliac disease is that it’s the same as a gluten intolerance. It’s not. Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition, which means gluten triggers the body to attack itself. Even tiny crumbs can cause real damage, whether symptoms show up immediately or not.

Another common myth is that going gluten-free is “trendy.” For coeliacs, it’s not a wellness choice—it’s lifelong medical treatment. There’s no cheat day, no “just this once,” and no shortcuts.

People also assume that if you don’t feel sick, you’re fine. Unfortunately, that’s not true either. Internal damage can happen silently, leading to nutrient deficiencies and long-term health issues.

The truth is, coeliac disease requires constant care, awareness, and safe food choices. The more we bust these assumptions, the easier it becomes for coeliacs to eat safely, travel confidently, and live well—without having to explain themselves at every meal.