Posted on: July 22, 2026
Celiac Disease: It’s More Than Just a Gluten Sensitivity
Many people think celiac disease only causes digestive issues, but that’s far from the whole story. As Dr. Lara Spector, Naturopathic Doctor in Ontario, often discusses with patients, celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that can affect nearly every system in the body. Some people experience significant digestive discomfort, while others have no obvious digestive symptoms at all. In fact, up to 60% of people with celiac disease may be asymptomatic, meaning they don’t experience the classic digestive symptoms many people associate with the condition. This is one reason why celiac disease can go undiagnosed for years. If you’ve ever wondered whether gluten could be affecting your health, understanding the signs of celiac disease is an important first step.
What Is Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the small intestine after gluten is consumed. Gluten is a protein naturally found in wheat, barley, and rye. In someone with celiac disease, eating gluten causes inflammation and damage to the lining of the small intestine. Over time, this damage can interfere with the body’s ability to properly absorb nutrients, leading to nutritional deficiencies and a wide range of symptoms. Unlike a gluten sensitivity, celiac disease is a lifelong autoimmune condition that requires strict avoidance of gluten. Dr. Lara Spector, Naturopathic Doctor in Ontario, helps patients understand their diagnosis while supporting overall health, digestion, nutrient status, and quality of life alongside conventional medical care.
Signs and Symptoms of Celiac Disease
Every person experiences celiac disease differently. Some people have noticeable digestive symptoms, while others have symptoms that seem completely unrelated to the digestive tract. Common symptoms may include: BloatingDiarrheaConstipationAbdominal discomfortFatigueBrain fogIron deficiency or anemiaSkin rashesMood changesPoor nutrient absorptionSlow growth or delayed development in childrenBecause these symptoms overlap with many other health conditions, celiac disease is sometimes overlooked.
Not Everyone Has Digestive Symptoms
One of the most surprising facts about celiac disease is that many people have little to no digestive symptoms at all. This makes family history especially important. Dr. Lara Spector shares this topic because it is personal to her own family. Her son was growing along the lower end of the growth curve, and because there was a family history of celiac disease, he was tested. He didn’t have the typical digestive complaints many people expect. After being diagnosed and transitioning to a gluten-free lifestyle, his growth has been doing wonderfully. Stories like this highlight why testing is so important—even when symptoms aren’t obvious.
Family History Matters
If a close family member has celiac disease, your own risk increases significantly. Approximately 1 in 10 first-degree relatives (parents, siblings, or children) of someone with celiac disease will also develop the condition. If celiac disease runs in your family, it’s worth discussing testing with your healthcare provider, even if you feel well. Early diagnosis can help prevent long-term complications related to nutrient deficiencies and ongoing intestinal inflammation.
Hidden Sources of Gluten
Many people know to avoid bread, pasta, and baked goods, but gluten can also be found in less obvious places. Some common hidden sources include: Soy sauceGraviesSoupsStore-bought saucesProcessed meats such as hot dogs and frozen burger pattiesImitation crabMalt vinegarCertain breakfast cerealsSome candiesIce creamOats that are not certified gluten-freeReading ingredient labels carefully becomes an important part of living safely with celiac disease.
Living Well With Celiac Disease
A diagnosis of celiac disease can feel overwhelming at first, but with education and support, many people go on to live healthy, energetic lives. Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed, you’re navigating a diagnosis for your child, or you’re wondering if your symptoms warrant further investigation, having knowledgeable healthcare guidance can make the transition much easier. Dr. Lara Spector, Naturopathic Doctor in Ontario, works with individuals and families to help them better understand celiac disease, optimize nutrition, identify nutrient deficiencies, and support overall wellness while following a gluten-free lifestyle. Every person’s health journey is unique, and personalized care can help ensure you’re getting the support you need.
Looking for Support? If you have questions about celiac disease, gluten-free living, digestive health, or whether testing may be appropriate for you, Dr. Lara Spector, Naturopathic Doctor in Ontario, is happy to help guide you through your next steps. Whether you’re managing your own diagnosis or supporting a family member, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
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