Celiac Disease and Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity: From Diagnosis to Dietary Strategies

Celiac Disease (CD) and Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS) are gluten-affiliated diseases that necessitate changes in diet as a form of treatment. CD and NCGS vary in pathophysiology, diagnosis, and dietary approaches. CD is an autoimmune condition diagnosed by using serology tests and duodenal biopsy. Its treatment is characterized by the gluten-free diet (GFD), which must be well-planned to avoid nutritional deficiencies. NCGS lacks biomarkers and is diagnosed through exclusion. In NCGS patients, symptoms can be provoked by fermentable carbohydrates, e.g., fructans; thus, a low-FODMAP diet is a reasonable alternative. This literature-based thesis discusses the epidemiological characteristics, diagnostic issues, and dietary treatment of both conditions. It highlights the potential dangers of misdiagnosis and unwarranted dietary restrictions, conferring relevance on the role of nutrition professionals. The research investigates the need for guideline-driven approaches, the contribution of Internet as a source of information, nutrition education, and personalized intervention to improve adherence to dietary recommendations and health status. Controlled individualized dietary treatments are crucial in maintaining nutritional adequacy and effective symptom management.