04/07/2026
Celiac Disease can be triggered at any age. How old were you when “officially” diagnosed (assuming you probably remained UNdiagnosed for a few years prior, as was my case, 10-11 years overdue!). Fortunately, with more awareness,
timely diagnosis is improving…
Celiac disease is often thought of as something that is diagnosed in childhood, but it can develop at any age. Over 80% of cases in the US diagnosed in adulthood. The reported mean age at adult diagnosis in North America is between 46 to 56 years!
Regardless of age, the same factors are involved in the development of celiac disease: genetics and consumption of gluten. Certain genes increase the risk, especially in people who already have autoimmune diseases like autoimmune thyroid disease or type 1 diabetes.
It is also believed that triggers such as viral infections, major stress, changes in gut bacteria, or pregnancy may also bring on celiac disease in people who are genetically at risk. However, researchers are still addressing these questions.
