Find Relief with Expert Gastroenterology Services
Discover comprehensive care for Coeliac Disease and food intolerances with Dr Leena Sinha, where your well-being is our priority.
Understanding Your Symptoms
Introduction to Food Intolerances
Food should nourish you — not make you feel ill. Whether you’re reacting to gluten, dairy, or just don’t feel ‘right’ after eating certain meals, Dr Leena Sinha offers expert-led diagnosis and management of Coeliac Disease and food intolerances in London and Essex.
Coeliac Disease Explained
What is Coeliac Disease?
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition where the body reacts to gluten (a protein in wheat, barley, and rye), damaging the lining of the small intestine. This damage leads to poor absorption of nutrients. Coeliac disease is not a food intolerance or allergy — it’s a lifelong medical condition requiring strict gluten avoidance. Key symptoms include bloating, diarrhoea or constipation, fatigue, unexplained anaemia, weight loss, skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis), mouth ulcers, and delayed growth in children.
How is Coeliac Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosing Coeliac Disease involves a series of precise medical tests. Initially, blood tests are conducted to detect specific antibodies, such as anti-TTG and EMA, which indicate an immune response to gluten. It’s crucial that patients continue consuming gluten before and during these tests to ensure accurate results. The gold standard for diagnosis is an endoscopy with a small bowel biopsy, where a sample of the small intestine lining is examined for damage. In some cases, genetic testing for HLA-DQ2/DQ8 may be recommended to further confirm the diagnosis.
It’s important to maintain a gluten-containing diet prior to testing, as eliminating gluten can lead to a false negative result. This comprehensive approach ensures a reliable diagnosis, allowing for effective management of the condition.
Understanding Non-Coeliac Gluten Sensitivity
What is Non-Coeliac Gluten Sensitivity?
Non-Coeliac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS) is a condition where individuals experience symptoms similar to those of Coeliac Disease, such as bloating, abdominal pain, and fatigue, without the autoimmune response or intestinal damage. Unlike Coeliac Disease, NCGS does not cause long-term harm to the gut lining. Diagnosis is typically made by excluding other conditions like Coeliac Disease and wheat allergy. While the exact cause of NCGS is still being researched, managing symptoms often involves a gluten-free diet tailored to the individual’s needs.
Exploring Food Intolerances
What Are Food Intolerances?
Testing for Intolerances and Allergies
Comprehensive Diagnostic Approach
At Dr Leena Sinha’s Gastroenterology Services, we offer a range of tests to accurately diagnose food intolerances and allergies. Our approach includes blood tests for Coeliac Disease, breath tests for lactose and fructose intolerance, and elimination diets to pinpoint specific triggers. We also provide specialist allergy testing in collaboration with immunologists, ensuring a thorough evaluation of your symptoms. Our micronutrient blood checks help identify any deficiencies due to malabsorption, guiding effective management strategies.
Management & Living Well
Personalized Care Plans
Managing Coeliac Disease and food intolerances requires a tailored approach. At Dr Leena Sinha’s Gastroenterology Services, we emphasize a strict gluten-free diet for Coeliac Disease, coupled with regular monitoring for nutritional deficiencies such as iron, folate, and vitamin D. For food intolerances, we develop individualized diet plans focusing on dose control rather than total elimination. Our collaboration with dietitians ensures support with FODMAP diets and a structured reintroduction phase to determine personal tolerance levels. We also provide guidance on label reading and awareness of hidden gluten sources.
Our management strategies are designed to empower patients, ensuring they can enjoy a balanced diet while minimizing symptoms and maintaining optimal health.
Psychological & Emotional Impact
Holistic Support for Dietary Changes
Dietary restrictions can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety about eating out or socializing. At Dr Leena Sinha’s Gastroenterology Services, we recognize these challenges and offer comprehensive support. Our team provides counseling to help patients adjust to new dietary habits, addressing potential disordered eating patterns. We also offer hypnotherapy and coaching to alleviate anxiety and promote a positive relationship with food. Our compassionate approach ensures that patients feel supported and understood throughout their journey.
Why Choose Dr Leena Sinha?
Expertise and Compassion in Gastroenterology
Dr. Leena Sinha is a leading gastroenterology consultant known for her profound understanding of the gut-brain connection and her expertise in diagnosing coeliac disease and food intolerances. Her approach is holistic, ensuring that every patient receives comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs. With a network of dietitians, immunologists, and GPs, Dr. Sinha provides a seamless, integrated healthcare experience. Her compassionate nature ensures that you feel heard and supported throughout your journey to better health.
Take the Next Step Towards Better Health
Don’t let food-related discomfort hold you back any longer. Take the first step towards effective diagnosis and management of your condition with Dr. Leena Sinha. Our team is ready to support you with expert care and personalized treatment plans. Schedule your consultation today and start your journey towards a healthier, more comfortable life.
