Belly Blues from Bread? Understanding Celiac Disease vs. Gluten Intolerance
Ever felt your stomach protest after enjoying bread, pasta, or a slice of cake? You might have asked yourself, “Is this celiac disease, or am I just sensitive to gluten?” While the two share similar symptoms, they’re not the same — and understanding the difference can be the key to better health, greater comfort, and a happier relationship with food.
At Alternative Health Care Concepts, we believe that understanding your body is the first step toward healing — and we’re here to guide you with compassion, clarity, and a touch of holistic care.
What is Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition. When someone with celiac eats gluten — a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye — their immune system mistakenly attacks the small intestine. Over time, this can cause serious damage, nutrient deficiencies, and other health complications.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent bloating and gas
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Skin rashes
It’s important to note that celiac disease is not an allergy or a minor sensitivity — it’s a lifelong condition that requires a strict gluten-free diet for management.
What is Gluten Intolerance?
Gluten intolerance (also called non-celiac gluten sensitivity) is when your body reacts poorly to gluten — but without the autoimmune damage that celiac disease causes.
Typical signs of gluten intolerance may include:
- Stomach discomfort after eating gluten
- Bloating and indigestion
- Brain fog or trouble concentrating
- Headaches
The good news? Unlike celiac disease, gluten intolerance doesn’t damage your intestines. However, it can still significantly affect your quality of life if not managed.
How to Tell the Difference
The only way to confirm celiac disease is through proper medical testing, which may include blood tests and an intestinal biopsy. Gluten intolerance, on the other hand, is usually diagnosed by ruling out celiac disease and noticing symptom improvement when gluten is removed from your diet.
If you suspect either condition, don’t self-diagnose — partner with a healthcare provider who understands both traditional and holistic approaches.
Finding Relief Beyond Diet
While eliminating gluten is key for both conditions, many people also look for ways to support their digestive system and overall wellness. That’s where acupuncture and holistic therapies can help.
At Alternative Health Care Concepts, we’ve seen how treatments such as:
- Acupuncture in Studio City
- Acupuncture in Burbank
…can provide relief from symptoms like bloating, fatigue, headaches, and even stress, which often worsens digestive issues.
We also serve nearby communities with:
- Acupuncture in Toluca Lake
- Acupuncture in Hollywood
- Acupuncture in Sherman Oaks
By improving circulation, calming the nervous system, and supporting your body’s natural healing process, acupuncture can help you feel more balanced and energized — even when managing a gluten-free lifestyle.
A Gentle Reminder
Living with celiac disease or gluten intolerance doesn’t mean giving up joy in food or comfort in life. With the right knowledge, supportive care, and a little creativity in the kitchen, you can enjoy vibrant health. And remember — you’re not alone on this journey.
If you’re looking for a compassionate, whole-body approach to wellness, Alternative Health Care Concepts is here to help you feel your best, one step (and one delicious gluten-free bite) at a time.
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