Why are supplements essential?

WHY ARE SUPPLEMENTS ESSENTIAL?

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In an ideal world, we would get the required nutrients from our food. However, this is very challenging in today's world for a number of reasons. For people with coeliac disease, it is even more challenging due to the potential combination of a restricted gluten free diet and damage to the gut, impairing absorption.

WHY ARE SUPPLEMENTS ESSENTIAL?

In an ideal world, we would get the required nutrients from our food. However, this is very challenging in today's world for a number of reasons. For people with coeliac disease, it is even more challenging due to the potential combination of a restricted gluten free diet and damage to the gut, impairing absorption.

WHY ARE SUPPLEMENTS ESSENTIAL?

In an ideal world, we would get the required nutrients from our food. However, this is very challenging in today's world for a number of reasons. For people with coeliac disease, it is even more challenging due to the potential combination of a restricted gluten free diet and damage to the gut, impairing absorption.

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FARMING

Intensive farming and soil depletion have reduced the natural nutrient content of our food, meaning even fresh produce may provide fewer vitamins and minerals than it once did.

DIET CHOICES

Modern diet choices, whether plant-based, convenience-focused, or highly processed, can limit the variety of nutrients we consume, leaving gaps that supplements can help to fill.

RESTRICTED DIETS

Those following gluten-free, vegan, or other restricted diets may miss out on key nutrients typically found in excluded food groups, making supplementation essential for balanced nutrition.

GUT ILLNESSES/ MEDICATIONS

Digestive conditions and certain medications can affect how nutrients are absorbed, increasing the need for targeted vitamin and mineral support.

LACK OF SUNLIGHT

Limited sunlight exposure — especially in colder climates or for those who spend most time indoors — can lead to low vitamin D levels, making supplementation an important source of support.

Why do people with Coeliac disease need vitamins and mineral supplements?

Many symptoms experienced by people with coeliac disease are often linked to nutrient deficiencies. These deficiencies can lead to serious health complications and are particularly common due to gut damage that reduces nutrient absorption. Additionally, restricted diets - such as strict gluten-free, lactose-free, or vegan diets - can make it harder to get the essential nutrients the body needs.

What is coeliac disease?

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition where the body reacts abnormally to gluten - a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye - causing the immune system to attack the small intestine and disrupt nutrient absorption. The exact cause is unclear, though genetics and environment play a role. Symptoms can include diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and bloating, and while at least 1 in 100 people in the UK are affected, many cases go undiagnosed. There is no cure, but a strict gluten-free diet remains the only effective treatment, helping to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

How would I know if I'm nutrient deficient?

Some symptoms of nutrient deficiencies may include:

GENERAL

Fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, nausea, muscle pains and cramps, depression, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, recurrent mouth ulcers, a sore and red tongue, problems with vision.

HAIR, SKIN & NAILS

Hair loss, brittle or flaking nails, dry skin, itchy skin, pale skin.

GASTROINTESTINAL

Diarrhoea and constipation.

NEAROLOGICAL

Peripheral neuropathy – numbness, tingling, disordered sensation, pain and or weakness in the hands or feet.

Ataxia – poor balance, loss of coordination.

Nutrient deficiencies and conditions linked to coeliac disease can include: Osteoporosis, Osteopenia, iron deficiency anaemia, vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia or folate deficiency, as well as deficiencies of other vitamins and minerals like zinc, magnesium, copper, and selenium.

If you think you could be deficient you should seek advice from a medical professional.

Annual review with your GP - It is recommended that people with coeliac disease have annual reviews with a doctor to:

• Measure height, weight and BMI.
• Review symptoms
• Blood tests: Screening for anaemias - full blood count and ferritin. Associated autoimmune conditions – thyroid function tests, liver function tests. Assessment of nutritional deficiencies: vitamin B12, vitamin D and serum calcium levels.
• Assess adherence to the gluten free diet.
• Assessment of bone health.
• Check vaccination status.
• Consider mental health assessment.
• Referral to specific medical professionals if necessary.