The impact of a gluten‐free diet on adults with coeliac disease: results of a national survey

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Abstract
Objective  We sought to evaluate the impact of the gluten‐free diet on the 5,240 members of the Canadian Celiac Association (CCA). Data are presented on 2,681 adults (≥16 years) with biopsy‐proven celiac disease (CD).Methods  A mail‐out survey was used. Quality of life was evaluated using the ‘SF12’, and celiac‐specific questions.Results  Mean age was 56 years, mean age at diagnosis was 45 years, and 75% were female. The ‘SF12’ summary scores were similar to normative Canadian data, but were significantly lower for females and newly diagnosed patients.Respondents reported: following a gluten‐free (GF) diet (90%), improvement on the diet (83%), and difficulties following the diet (44%), which included: determining if foods were GF (85%), finding GF foods in stores (83%), avoiding restaurants (79%), and avoiding travel (38%). Most common reactions to consumed gluten (among 73%) included pain, diarrhea, bloating, fatigue, nausea, and headache.Excellent information on CD and its treatment was provided by the CCA (64%), gastroenterologists (28%), dietitians (26%) and family doctor (12%).Conclusions  Quality of life in those with CD could be increased with early diagnosis, increased availability of gluten‐free foods, improved food labelling, and better dietary instruction. Education of physicians and dietitians about CD and its treatment is essential.