1. Those with celiac disease (about 1 per cent of the US population) will have to keep to a lifelong strict gluten-free diet.

2. Those with symptoms of celiac disease — such as weight loss, stomach pains and gastrointestinal complications — but tested negative for celiac are potentially gluten sensitive (about 6-10 per cent of the US population).

3. Other symptoms of gluten sensitivity include fatigue and headaches. Symptoms have been shown to improve with gluten-free diets.

4. People who think they have gluten sensitivity should test for celiac first. They can then get the proper medical attention and keep to a prescribed diet.

5. Gluten sensitivity is harder to test but gluten-free diets can help. The difference between celiac disease and gluten sensitivity is that the latter does not damage the intestine.

6. It is also worthwhile to note that a gluten-free diet is only beneficial for those who suffer from celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The principles of a gluten-free diet remove a wide variety of wholegrains that are high in vitamins, minerals and dietary fibre, so those who have a lifelong adherence to it should consult a dietitian to ensure they do not become deficient in any of the nutrients.

Jaclyn Reutens is a dietitian with Aptima Nutrition & Sports Consultants (Tel: 6836 9004; http://www.aptima-nsc.com)