Being told you have coeliac disease can bring a mixture of emotions. You may feel relieved to finally have an explanation for your symptoms, but it’s also completely normal to feel overwhelmed by the thought of following a gluten-free diet for life. The good news is that you don’t have to navigate it alone. Your first appointment with a dietitian is designed to help you understand your diagnosis and give you the confidence to manage it successfully.

National guidelines for the diagnosis and management of coeliac disease recommend that all coeliac patients should be offered an appointment with a specialist dietitian after receiving their diagnosis. You may be referred to see a dietitian by your GP, or by your hospital gastroenterologist. The appointment can take place in a variety of ways, some people may be offered a telephone or online consultation, whereas others will be offered a face-to-face appointment, or invited to take part in a small group education session.

A warm welcome and time to ask questions

Your dietitian understands that a coeliac disease diagnosis can feel like a lot to take in. The dietitian appointment is a safe space where you can discuss any concerns, from symptoms and test results to worries about eating out, travelling, or cooking for your family.

No question is too small. Whether you’re wondering if oats are safe, how to read food labels, or what to do about cross-contamination, your dietitian is there to help.

Understanding the gluten-free diet

A key part of the appointment will be learning how to follow a strict gluten-free diet. Your dietitian will explain: · Which foods contain gluten

· Foods that are naturally gluten-free and where to find specialist gluten-free products in the supermarket

· How to access gluten-free foods on prescription*

· How to identify gluten-containing ingredients on food labels

· Ways to avoid accidental gluten exposure at home and when eating out

Many people are surprised to learn that gluten can be found in unexpected places. Your dietitian will help you spot less obvious sources and build confidence in choosing safe foods.

Checking that your diet is balanced

Removing gluten should not mean you need to compromise on consuming a nutritious diet. Your dietitian will look at your usual eating habits and support you to identify suitable gluten-free swaps for the foods you usually enjoy. They will also provide tips to help ensure you eat enough fibre, vitamins and minerals as part of a balanced diet.

They may discuss foods rich in

· Iron

· Calcium

· B vitamins

· Fibre

This is particularly important if you’ve experienced nutrient deficiencies before diagnosis.

Personalised advice for your lifestyle

Everyone’s experience of coeliac disease is different. Your dietitian will tailor advice to your individual needs, taking into account your age, lifestyle, family situation, work, travel habits, and food preferences.

You’ll leave with practical tips that fit into your everyday life, rather than a long list of foods to avoid.

Looking ahead

Many people start to feel better within weeks or months of following a strict gluten-free diet. Your dietitian will explain what improvements you might expect and discuss any follow-up support that may be available. Your dietitian will also be able to signpost you to other organisations who can support you on your gluten-free journey, for example the patient charity, Coeliac UK.

With the right information and support, following a gluten-free diet will soon become part of your routine. Your first dietitian appointment is the beginning of that journey, helping you move forward with confidence and focus on enjoying food safely.

*Local prescribing policies apply

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