It’s one thing to diagnose coeliac disease. It’s another to live with it.

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As a GP, I’ve seen my fair share of patients presenting with vague symptoms—tiredness, bloating, skin rashes, brain fog—and watched them bounce between specialists before finally getting the answer: coeliac disease. I knew the textbook definition inside out. But I’ll admit, it wasn’t until I was sitting on the other side of the desk, newly diagnosed myself, that I truly appreciated what it means to live gluten-free. Not just as a dietary choice, but as a daily necessity.

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My journey to diagnosis wasn’t immediate. I’d had symptoms for years—some subtle, some frustratingly persistent—but like many people in healthcare, I was a bit too good at downplaying them. It wasn’t until I decided to consult my own GP and bloods and a rather unpleasant camera test later that I had my answer - coeliac disease. After the initial denial and grief over losing pizza, pasta and beer from my diet came the acceptance. This was my new way of life.

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What struck me most in the early days post-diagnosis was just how pervasive gluten is. It’s not just about avoiding bread and pasta. It’s soy sauce, salad dressings, and even the dusting flour on chips. I found myself reading every label like a detective and grilling waiters with an intensity that would make me look like I worked the Food Standards Agency. There’sa steep learning curve—and a constant vigilance that doesn’t let up.

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But it’s not all bad.

Living with coeliac disease has changed the way I practise medicine. It’s made me slower to dismiss subtle symptoms. More empathetic to those navigating chronic conditions. And better at giving practical, lived advice. I don’t just say “go gluten free” anymore—I talk about cross-contamination in toasters, the weirdly gluten-laden condiments, and how to handle awkward social situations where someone insists “a little won’t hurt.”

If you’re newly diagnosed, know this: it does get easier. Your kitchen will become a safe haven. Your local spots will learn how to cater for you. You’ll start to feel better—clearer, more energetic, more like yourself again. And if you’re someone wondering whether your persistent symptoms might be coeliac, don’t hesitate to explore it. Testing is straightforward. The peace of mind (and health gains) are worth it.

Living with coeliac disease isn’t always convenient. But for me, it’s been a chance to align my personal experience with my professional calling—and that’s been unexpectedly empowering.