PEOPLE in Helensburgh and Lomond who are living with coeliac disease could benefit from a new healthy living guide.

NHS 24 hopes their “Living Well with Coeliac Disease” guide will help the estimated 14,500 people in Scotland who are diagnosed with the condition, which causes inflammation of the small intestine.

The guide was created in partnership with the charity Coeliac UK, NHS Scotland, Scottish Government, and people who have experience of coeliac disease.

It busts some common myths about the condition, such as “a breadcrumb won’t hurt someone with coeliac disease”.

This is because even very small amounts of gluten, which is found in wheat, barley and rye, can be harmful to people with coeliac disease.

Dr Laura Ryan, medical director at NHS 24, said: “Symptoms of coeliac disease can vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe.

“Living with the disease can be challenging but with the right support and information, it’s completely manageable.”

Dr Ryan says being able to chat about your symptoms and share hints and tips on how to stay gluten free can really help and she recommends joining a local support group.

Myles Fitt, Scotland lead at Coeliac UK, said: “Starting a gluten free diet can be challenging.

“This informative new guide will be very helpful for those newly diagnosed with coeliac disease.

“There are many things to think about such as which foods are gluten free, where to shop and how to eat out safely.

“With this guide, and support from Coeliac UK, those with coeliac disease will be able to live well, gluten free.”

Coeliac disease is a lifelong autoimmune disease caused by a reaction to gluten which affects around one in every 100 people.

Visit nhsinform.scot to access the guide.