Common mistakes around Gluten Genetik

Common mistakes around gluten genetic testing: Many consumers and even some clinicians overestimate the clinical utility. The key genes (HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8) are associated with celiac disease, but a positive result does not mean you have the disease – only about 30–40% of carriers develop celiac. A negative test does not rule out non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), for which no validated genetic markers exist. Many direct-to-consumer tests market 'gluten genetics' as comprehensive, but evidence for other genes (e.g., MTHFR, IL-6) is weak or purely mechanistic. Another mistake is ignoring that celiac diagnosis requires duodenal biopsy and serology – genetics is just one piece. Without medical follow-up, a genetic test can lead to unnecessary restrictive diets or false reassurance. Bottom line: Genetics can indicate risk, not diagnose. Consult a gastroenterologist before making dietary changes.