The Doctor Gluten Project

Gail writes: "Although I have not had the "official diagnosis" that I have dermatitis herpetiformis, or that I'm gluten intolerant, I KNOW what makes me break out ... I have been as gluten-free as possible for 4 months, and I continue to break out ... but not nearly as severe.  My research tells me that I could continue to break out for up to several years, even on a gluten-free diet.  Is this true??  Thank you for any answers you can provide, in this "non-believing, sceptical work" that "we" as celiacs, live in”. Thanks,  Gail.

I reply:

Yes, I believe you!

Yes, your rashes (Dermatitis Herpetiformis) will come up and down for a year or so.   Yes, keep strictly gluten-free.  You might find that as you go off gluten you will become even more sensitive to gluten.

No, it is not too late to get the blood tests.  After four months your blood tests will probably still be abnormal. Check out the blood test page and get tested (it is especially important to get the IgG-gliadin).

Most people with DH feel improvements in their general health after just a few months.  But skin breakouts can occur for several more months and years.  It is important to be very strict with your diet.  Cheers, Dr Rodney Ford.