10/16/2025
Celiac Disease vs. Gluten Intolerance: What’s the Difference?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder. When someone with celiac eats gluten, their immune system attacks the lining of the small intestine, damaging its ability to absorb nutrients. Untreated, it can lead to serious complications. 
Gluten intolerance (also called non-celiac gluten sensitivity) causes similar symptoms like bloating, gas, or abdominal pain but does not trigger the autoimmune reaction or intestinal damage seen in celiac disease. 
Because symptoms overlap, testing is key. Before going gluten-free, talk to a gastroenterologist to rule out celiac disease first.