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Introduction

This leaflet has been written to help you become familiar with a gluten free diet, as your child has been diagnosed with Coeliac disease. 

Your child will be referred to see a dietitian, who will give you more detailed advice on the gluten free diet and lifestyle. This leaflet is not intended to replace advice given by a dietitian. 

Top Tips

1. Learn Which Foods are Gluten Free

  • Gluten is the protein found in wheat, barley, rye 
  • Oats are naturally gluten-free but a minority of people with coeliac disease may be sensitive to a similar protein found in oats called Avenin, therefore it is advised to avoid oats until you have had a repeat blood test to confirm it is ok to reintroduce them 
  • There are lots of naturally gluten free foods. All types of plain rice, potatoes, corn (maize), plain meat, fish, chicken, eggs and pulses, as well as milk, most yoghurts, fresh fruit and vegetables are gluten free
  • These are all suitable for those following a gluten free diet.

2. Join Coeliac UK (www.coeliac.org.uk)

  • Coeliac UK is the national charity dedicated to helping people live well with Coeliac disease.
  • As a member you can ask for a gluten free directory, which contains lots of information on many different foods which are gluten free. Once you are a member, the directory can also be downloaded as an App.
  • We would strongly encourage you to become a member

3. Start Looking at Food Labels

  • All packaged food in the UK and EU is covered by law on allergen labelling. If a food is made with a grain containing gluten, it must be highlighted in bold, underlined or in italics on the label
  • Grains containing gluten are often used as an ingredient in many manufactured foods
  • If a food is labelled gluten free or ‘suitable for Coeliacs’, it is safe to eat
  • A good place to get more information on labelling is the Coeliac UK website

4. Ask Your GP About Getting Gluten Free Products on Prescription

  • You may be entitled to some basic gluten free food on prescription, depending on where you live. 

Generally, only staple foods, such as bread, flour and possibly pasta are available, rather than biscuits and cake

  • Some companies who make gluten free food produce starter packs so you can try their products before you order
  • There are many more gluten free products available to buy either online or in supermarkets

5. Supermarket and Supermarket Websites

  • Most major supermarkets stock their own gluten free products and some branded gluten free products; these will likely be in a special ‘free from’ section.
  • Availability may vary, so you may need to use more than one supermarket to get what you want.
  • If you are shopping online, use the ingredients list on specific products to help you select suitable food.

Contact us

If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Dietetics service.

About this information

Service:
Dietetics

Reference:
DT/093

Approval date:
22 May 2026

Review date:
1 May 2029

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Important note 

This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.