What is a gluten free diet?

1. A strict gluten free diet is currently the only effective way to manage coeliac disease. All foods containing wheat, rye and barley (including lesser known varieties like triticale, kamut and spelt) must be eliminated when following a gluten free diet.
2. It is important to bear in mind that even small quantities of gluten can lead to the lining of the gut becoming damaged. It’s important to carefully check the ingredients lists on all foods, including those that don’t obviously appear to contain any gluten-containing ingredients, such as crisps or chocolate.
3. Gluten is often used as a thickener or carrier for flavours and colours. Gluten-containing ingredients must be clearly labelled within the ingredient list. See How to Check Food Labels for more information.