I am writing regarding my concerns with Bruce Hart's column ‘Coeliac disease in the family' which appeared in The Weekend Sun, May 22, 2015.

The information included in this article was incorrect and misleading to the readers of The Weekend Sun.

Coeliac disease is not a leaky gut as stated by Mr Hart. It is in fact a serious autoimmune
disorder caused by an intolerance to gluten.

In response to this the body produces antibodies which damage the lining of the
small bowel making it impossible for the body to absorb nutrients.

It does not as stated by Mr Hart ‘allow large undigested food molecules and stuff like yeast and toxins to fl ow into the blood stream'.

To quote a study done in 1924 does not help his argument with his perceived management of coeliac disease.

Whatever research was around in 1924 has well and truly been superseded by more up
to date research, and none presently support the use of gelatin in the management of coeliac disease.

The treatment of coeliac disease is a life-long diet of strictly avoiding gluten, for a few some other diet restrictions may be needed if they have irritable bowel layered on top of this.

Coeliac disease is a serious condition that without the correct dietary management can lead to serious health complications.

Fiona Boyle, NZ Registered dietitian.