Is it an allergy or intolerance to gluten? The result is often the same: you have to eat a gluten-free diet for the rest of your life. But an allergy involves the immune system, and results in symptoms like rashes, sneezing and upset stomachs. Intolerance involves the intestinal tract and includes diarrhea, bloating and related issues.

In celiac disease (intolerance), gluten actually destroys the intestinal lining and can be deadly over time. If wheat merely "bothers" you, it's likely an allergy. Either way, treatment is the same.

Published 07/31/09