Dear Dr. Gott: The letter from the 36-year-old man who suffered so many problems since his gallbladder surgery sounds exactly like what I have experienced in the 10 years since my gallbladder was removed. Despite seeing numerous gastroenterologists and trying many medicines, my conditions did not improve. I was even told I should see a psychiatrist for the problems!

It eventually became so severe I could no longer work. Thank heaven I have a husband who won't give up and kept on doing research on my symptoms. He realized that celiac disease seemed to match. Within two days of being on a gluten-free diet, my symptoms subsided. It seemed like a miracle! I've been on the diet for five years now and have even been able to return to work.

Dear reader: Congratulations to your husband for sticking with it and finding something that has helped you greatly.

Celiac disease is the body's inability to digest gluten, found in most grains. Often, it is accompanied by lactose intolerance.

Symptoms include vomiting, bloating of the abdomen, diarrhea and fatigue. It can affect young children and adults.

A gluten-free diet is the only way to relieve symptoms. Foods that contain gluten, such as wheat products (bread, pasta, etc.) are eliminated. Rice and corn are often recommended as suitable substitutes. Vitamins should be taken daily to prevent dietary deficiencies. High-protein, high-calorie foods are the best options for people with gluten sensitivities. These include peanut butter, nuts, beans and red meats. Chicken, fish, fruit and vegetables should also be added to help maintain a healthful, nutritious diet.

For information regarding gluten intolerance, celiac disease and a gluten-free diet, I recommend the Web site http://www.celiac-disease.com. Always speak with your doctor before starting any diet. Having a complete exam and review of your symptoms is important because the symptoms of celiac disease can mimic those of other disorders, such as colitis or irritable-bowel syndrome.

— Questions may be sent to Dr. Peter Gott in care of United Media Services, 200 Madison Ave., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10016. Those of general interest will be answered in future columns.