Introduction

To confirm a diagnosis of coeliac disease or before a gluten challenge, a diet containing gluten must be eaten for a minimum of six weeks prior to the blood test.

It is recommended that your child eats a minimum of two meals and one snack per day containing gluten with, in an appropriate portion for their age.

Common foods that contain gluten

  • Wheat-based breakfast cereals e.g. Weetabix, Cheerios, Shreddies, Honey Loops, Shredded Wheat
  • Bread and bread products e.g. crumpets, muffins, croissants, breadsticks, pancakes
  • Foods coated in breadcrumbs e.g. fish fingers, chicken nuggets
  • Pizza bases
  • Rye bread/Ryvita
  • Pasta
  • Couscous, semolina
  • Cakes
  • Biscuits and crackers, rusks
  • Pies and pastries

If your child experiences severe symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness or abdominal pain when gluten is re-introduced, you should contact your child’s doctor about whether to continue with the challenge.
 

Contact us

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

About this information

Service:
Dietetics

Reference:
DT/094

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.