You Are Negative for Celiac Disease. Now What?

I hear it all the time—someone gets tested for celiac disease, the results come back negative, and they’re left wondering what’s next. If you’ve been experiencing symptoms like bloating, fatigue, or digestive discomfort, a negative celiac test result doesn’t necessarily mean gluten isn’t an issue for you. Let’s talk about what this result means and what steps you can take moving forward.

Understanding the Test Results

First, it’s important to understand what a negative test result really means. When you’re tested for celiac disease, your doctor is looking for certain antibodies in your blood or damage to the small intestine through a biopsy. A negative result simply means that celiac disease isn’t the culprit. However, it doesn’t rule out other potential sensitivities to gluten or other digestive issues that could be causing your symptoms. This is why I say over and over, test don’t guess to understand your health issues. 

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Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS) Is Real

Many people experience symptoms similar to celiac disease without testing positive for it. This is known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). Unlike celiac disease, NCGS doesn’t cause damage to the small intestine, but it can still lead to discomfort, brain fog, joint pain, and digestive problems. The challenge is that there’s no definitive test for NCGS—diagnosis is often based on symptoms and elimination diets.

Other Possible Causes of Your Symptoms

If gluten isn’t the issue, what else could be going on? Food intolerances, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), or other digestive disorders could be responsible. Dairy, high-FODMAP foods, and certain artificial additives are common culprits. Working with a registered dietitian can help pinpoint the root cause and develop a personalized plan to alleviate symptoms.

What Should You Do Next?

If you’re still experiencing discomfort, consider keeping a food journal to track your symptoms. An elimination diet, guided by a professional, can help determine if gluten or another food is causing your issues. Functional medicine testing may also provide insights into gut health and food sensitivities.

Most importantly, don’t ignore your symptoms. Just because you don’t have celiac disease doesn’t mean you should suffer in silence. There are plenty of ways to identify and address your food sensitivities so you can start feeling better and living your healthiest life. Become your own healthcare advocate and start your journey to getting better today.

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Episode Transcript