Celiac Disease & Gluten Sensitivity

At NYU Langone, gastroenterologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of celiac disease. They work with our dietitians to care for people who have trouble digesting gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, as well as in many packaged and processed foods, beverages, and cosmetics. 

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition in which a person’s immune system attacks healthy tissues in the digestive tract as a result of exposure to gluten. Over time, inflammation caused by recurrent attacks can damage the small intestine, resulting in improper absorption of important nutrients and many digestive symptoms. Without treatment, intestinal inflammation caused by celiac disease can lead to more serious health problems.

Our doctors can also diagnose gluten sensitivity, also known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity or gluten intolerance. Someone with gluten sensitivity may experience digestive symptoms after eating foods containing gluten, but the condition does not cause intestinal damage or poor absorption. Unlike celiac disease, gluten sensitivity is not an autoimmune disease and does not threaten your health, though it can certainly affect your quality of life. 

NYU Langone gastroenterologists and other specialists work together to ensure an accurate diagnosis, provide recommendations for a gluten-free lifestyle, and offer other specialized treatment options for people with celiac disease.

Our pediatric gastroenterologists provide treatment for children with celiac disease.