Gluten Sensitivity vs. Celiac Disease: What’s the Difference & Why It Matters
Gluten Sensitivity vs. Celiac Disease: What’s the Difference?
Many people assume that gluten sensitivity and celiac disease are the same, but they are actually distinct conditions with different mechanisms. However, both require strict elimination of gluten to prevent long-term health complications.
Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disorder where ingesting gluten triggers an immune attack on the small intestine. This can lead to nutrient malabsorption, digestive distress, and long-term damage to the gut lining.
Gluten Sensitivity (Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity or NCGS) is an immune-mediated reaction that does not cause autoimmune damage but still leads to inflammation, digestive discomfort, and systemic issues throughout the body.
Despite the difference in mechanisms, gluten sensitivity can be just as serious as celiac disease when it comes to long-term health risks.
Why You Must Take Gluten Sensitivity Seriously
If you’ve been told you have gluten sensitivity, you may think that it’s okay to have gluten “here and there.” Unfortunately, research suggests otherwise. Studies indicate that within five years of being diagnosed with gluten sensitivity, 30-50% of individuals go on to develop an autoimmune disease (source: Journal of Autoimmunity). This is due to chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation caused by repeated gluten exposure.
Symptoms of Gluten Sensitivity & Celiac Disease
Physical Symptoms:
Bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea
Brain fog and fatigue
Joint pain and inflammation
Skin rashes or acne
Migraines and headaches
Hidden, Non-Physical Symptoms Often Dismissed:
Mood disorders: Anxiety, depression, irritability
Hormonal imbalances: Irregular cycles, thyroid dysfunction
Cognitive issues: Memory lapses, trouble focusing
Autoimmune development: Hashimoto’s, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus
Ignoring gluten sensitivity can set off a cascade of systemic issues—even if you don’t experience immediate digestive symptoms.
Testing for Gluten Sensitivity & Celiac Disease
Most conventional doctors only test for celiac disease and miss non-celiac gluten sensitivity altogether. At my practice, I use comprehensivefunctional lab testing to detect both conditions. This includes:
Wheat Zoomer Panel (for gluten reactivity and intestinal permeability)
Anti-gliadin and anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies
Gut microbiome and inflammation markers
Identifying hidden food sensitivities and gut dysfunction can be a game-changer for your health.
Take Control of Your Health Today
If you suspect gluten is causing issues or you’ve been diagnosed with sensitivity but haven’t fully committed to eliminating it, now is the time to take action.
Let’s get to the root of your symptoms with functional lab testing and a personalized healing plan. Book a consultation with me today here.
Your health is worth it. Let’s do this together!
Medical Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or health routine.
Dee Davidson is a Functional Health Practitioner, hormone health expert, and advocate for personalized health and integrative care. With a focus on functional health and functional nutrition, Dee provides bio-individualized solutions to help clients restore balance. To learn more about how functional lab testing, functional medicine, and a holistic health approach can support your wellness journey, listen to her Confidently Balance Your Hormones podcast or schedule a discovery call at ConfidentlyLoveYourself.com.