Yes. Coeliac blood tests and biopsy both rely on an active immune reaction, so cutting gluten first can produce a false negative. Australian guidelines generally suggest eating the equivalent of around two-four slices of wheat bread daily for at least four-six weeks before testing. If you have already gone gluten free, talk to your GP before restarting, and ask your dietitian how to manage symptoms during the challenge.

Not automatically. Most Australian oats are contaminated with wheat during growing and milling, and roughly 1 in 5 people with coeliac disease also react to the oat protein avenin itself. Oats cannot be labelled gluten free in Australia.

In Australia, “gluten free” means no detectable gluten, which is the standard to look for. “Low gluten” allows up to 20mg per 100g and is not suitable for coeliac disease. Products labelled “wheat free” may still contain rye, barley or malt. Ingredient lists must declare cereals containing gluten, so check the allergen statement as well as the front of the pack.

First-degree relatives, meaning parents, siblings and children, have around a 1 in 10 chance of having coeliac disease, so testing is usually recommended even without symptoms. Because it can develop at any age, one clear result does not rule it out for life, and repeat testing may be suggested later. Ask your GP about screening for your household.

Ongoing symptoms usually have a reason worth chasing. Common causes include small amounts of hidden gluten, temporary lactose intolerance while the bowel lining heals, other food triggers, medication or supplement ingredients, or a separate condition. Persistent symptoms after 12 months of strict eating should be reviewed by your GP or gastroenterologist as well as your dietitian.

Yes. Coeliac antibody levels are usually rechecked at intervals after diagnosis to confirm the diet is working, because they fall when gluten exposure stops. Iron studies, B12, folate, calcium and vitamin D are commonly monitored too, and a bone density scan may be arranged. Bring recent results to your appointment so your food plan can target what is actually low.