After Being Diagnosed with Celiac Disease:
Steps to Start a Gluten-Free Diet
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1. Learn Which Foods Are Naturally Gluten-Free
All types of rice, potatoes, corn, meat, fish, eggs, milk, fruits, vegetables, and legumes (peas, beans, and lentils) are naturally gluten-free and safe to eat.
Learn to read labels and identify possible hidden gluten in ingredients.
Assess the risk of cross-contamination.
Many products that should not contain gluten may have it added. Use trusted brands with proven quality.
Always check medication ingredients for gluten-containing components.
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2. Join the Association of Bulgarian Coeliacs – Gluten-Free Life
By joining the Association of Bulgarian Coeliacs – Gluten-Free Life, you can receive detailed information about living with celiac disease.
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Consult a nutrition specialist
Your gastroenterologist, general practitioner, or dietitian should provide personalized guidance on how to gradually eliminate gluten from your diet.
The Association of Bulgarian Coeliacs – Gluten-Free Life can offer advice and support.
Before your consultation, keep a food diary for two to three days and prepare any questions or concerns you have.
Don't hesitate to ask about minor details and request follow-up consultations.
You should also schedule regular check-ups with your doctor and gastroenterologist.
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Talk to your doctor about getting gluten-free flour and disability benefits (TELK) covered by health insurance
People with celiac disease in Bulgaria can receive gluten-free flour through a prescription covered by the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
The celiac disease diagnosis code is K90.0.
Additionally, people with celiac disease may qualify for TELK disability benefits.
There are many gluten-free products available from different manufacturers, and it's recommended to try various options as they differ in taste and texture. Contact manufacturers directly for specific product information.
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Connect with others who have celiac disease
They can be an invaluable source of support and advice.
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Research gluten-free products in supermarkets and online
Some supermarkets have a wide selection of gluten-free products, and the availability has increased in recent years.
However, stock may vary between stores, so you might need to visit multiple locations to get a good idea of what’s available. Gluten-free items may not always be in a dedicated section but placed among other products, so take your time to find them.
7. Annual Check-Ups
After being diagnosed with celiac disease, regular follow-ups are crucial. Typically, you should have an annual check-up to ensure you are managing your condition correctly.
Even if you feel fine and your symptoms have disappeared, regular monitoring helps confirm that your health is on track.
This check-up can be conducted by your gastroenterologist or a doctor specializing in celiac disease.
During the appointment, the following is recommended:
- Measurement of weight and height
- Review of symptoms
- Evaluation of dietary adherence and need for specialized nutritional advice
If you have concerns, additional tests may be considered, such as:
Complete blood count (CBC):
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Calcium levels
- Ferritin levels
- Folic acid levels
- Vitamin B12 levels
- Celiac antibodies (tTG and/or EMA)
- Thyroid function tests (TSH)
- Liver function tests
- Sweat test (to rule out cystic fibrosis)
8. Celiac Disease in children
t is recommended that children be monitored continuously by an experienced pediatric gastroenterologist. After diagnosis, they should have a check-up every 6 to 12 months, followed by annual reviews. This should include antibody blood tests every year or less frequently. Routine follow-up biopsies are not common, but they may be considered if necessary.
Children should have their height and weight monitored to track growth and development.
If your child’s symptoms do not improve or worsen despite following a gluten-free diet, consult a doctor.
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