Hi,

Since being diagnosed with Coeliac Disease I've been on a GF & lactose free diet for 1.5 years and have only just (in the last 6 months) noticed that my health is getting better.  I still feel bloated after i eat/drink anything and that's after seeing a nutritionist and cutting out tea/alcohol/soya/yeast/sugar & salt from my diet.  My gastro thinks it's IBS too but the tablets they gave me had no effect on the bloating.  I end up feeling and looking 5 months pregnant!

Could this still be me getting better on my diet?  Or could i have additional food intolerances? It doesn't seem to be triggered by any particular food type & even happens after i have a glass of water.  Can i be tested for further food intolerances at the doctors to save on the £200 tests i've seen advertised?

Morag McLaren - Exeter

Hi Morag

It doesn't sound like your symptoms are related to another food intolerance if you experience them even after drinking water. And if you have been strictly following a gluten free and lactose free diet then you should not be suffering from gluten or lactose related effects. Look at your diet closely and make sure something you are eaten doesn't contain hidden gluten or lactose.

Your symptoms may improve if you improve the balance of friendly bacteria in your gut. You can't take the yoghurt drinks (as they contain lactose) so try the bacterai in capsule form, available from most chemists and health food stores. This might help with the bloating.

Even though it can be frustrating always seek advice from your GP or gastro specialist. Before you pay for any other advice make sure you check their qualifications and practice methods.

Sarah