When is Gluten Check actually useful?

The Gluten Check is a consumer test that typically measures antibodies (e.g., tTG-IgA) or genetic risk markers (HLA-DQ2/DQ8) for celiac disease. It is useful only when there is a reasonable suspicion of celiac disease – such as family history or unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms – and if the user has been consuming gluten before testing. It is not validated for non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), as no reliable biomarker exists. The test cannot replace a clinical diagnosis: positive results require confirmation via lab blood work and possibly an intestinal biopsy. Negative results do not rule out celiac disease, especially if the user is already on a gluten-free diet. Evidence is moderate for celiac screening but weak for general gluten intolerance claims. Consumers should be cautious of overblown marketing.