Coeliac-disease

Gluten-free diets have no evidence for weight loss benefit in people without coeliac disease or non-coeliac gluten sensitivity. In people with coeliac disease, gluten avoidance is medically essential. This article clarifies who benefits, and why the weight loss claim is unsupported.

Unintentional weight loss exceeding 5% of body weight over 6–12 months, or any unexplained rapid loss, requires medical investigation. Common causes include hyperthyroidism, type 2 diabetes, coeliac disease, IBD, depression, and malignancy. NICE guidelines define the investigation pathway. This article covers what to look for and when to contact a GP.