There’s nothing to be ashamed of in having coeliac disease and it is easier for people to support you if they know you need a gluten-free diet and understand what it entails. The support of those around you will make sticking to your diet much easier.

Telling people is the easy part, getting them to fully understand the condition is somewhat more difficult.

The following information might be helpful:
Coeliac disease - A short summary of coeliac disease and the gluten-free diet.
Having a coeliac to visit - Advice for your friends when they're cooking for you.

There are several groups of people that you should tell:

• Your family - Coeliac disease runs in families so close family members should visit their GP and ask to be tested.
• Your children – You may find the information in our parents section useful for explaining coeliac disease to children.
• Your friends - It’s important that your friends support you.
• Your household - Everyone in your household including guests will need to know about your kitchen set up.
• Your colleagues - You’ll need to explain to your colleagues if you ever eat out with them or if you keep items in the fridge at work.