HealthInfo Canterbury
Self-care for coeliac disease
Tāu ake whakaora i te mate witi-kore
There are several things you can do to help yourself if you have coeliac disease.
- Learn more about coeliac disease and eating gluten-free.
- Take nutrition supplements prescribed by your general practice team or dietitian. Some people with coeliac disease have low levels of nutrients when they are first diagnosed. These can include iron, folate, vitamin D and vitamin B12. When your small bowel heals and you are able to absorb nutrients properly, you will no longer need to take supplements.
- Check that any medications and supplements you take are gluten-free. If you have any questions, talk to your pharmacist.
- Keep physically active. This is one of the best things you can do for your health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days. Read about ideas for getting more activity into your day.
- Join Coeliac New Zealand. As a member, you will receive:
- a new member pack with information on coeliac disease, the gluten-free diet and where to shop
- access to local support groups
- access to the members area on the Coeliac New Zealand website
- a monthly e-newsletter and a twice-yearly Coeliac Link magazine. These have information about gluten-free recipes, local support group activities and coeliac research. They have information about local restaurants providing gluten-free meals. They also have information about suppliers of gluten-free foods.
- Have a yearly check-up with your general practice team. They will check your general health, do blood tests and discuss any concerns. Your general practice team may send you for a bone density scan to check for osteoporosis.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- Coeliac Australia – Travelling to Australia
A factsheet with information about taking food and medicine into Australia. It includes shopping, eating out, accommodation tips and domestic flights.
On the next page: Getting help for coeliac disease
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed November 2023.
SourcesReview key: HICOA-25716
