Natural Celiac Disease Doctor in Scottsdale & Phoenix
Go Beyond Gluten-free with Naturopathic Treatment for Lasting Relief & Remission
Dr. Dan Wool | Arizona-licensed Naturopathic Physician | Gastroenterology + Hormone Specialist | 8+ Years Experience
17+ Years Successfully Living with Celiac Disease
Living Well with Celiac Disease is Possible
Receiving a celiac disease diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't mean a lifetime of constant struggle.
At our Scottsdale naturopathic practice, Dr. Dan Wool specializes in providing comprehensive, integrative treatment for adults with celiac disease who are seeking natural, sustainable solutions beyond just eliminating gluten.
What makes our practice unique is that Dr. Wool doesn't just treat celiac disease—he lives with it. Diagnosed in 2009, Dr. Wool has successfully managed his own celiac disease and understands firsthand the challenges, frustrations, and triumphs that come with this autoimmune condition. His personal experience combined with advanced naturopathic medical training enables him to provide compassionate, evidence-based care that addresses not just your symptoms, but your whole health picture.
Our approach goes beyond the standard gluten-free diet to address the root causes of inflammation, support your body's natural healing capacity, optimize nutrient absorption, and focus on long-term wellness rather than just symptom management. We work collaboratively with your existing healthcare team to provide personalized care that honors both conventional and naturopathic medicine.
We excel at helping celiac patients achieve deep intestinal healing, prevent nutrient deficiencies, avoid complications, and regain energy and quality of life through targeted natural therapies.
Why Choose Naturopathic Medicine for Celiac Disease Treatment
Naturopathic medicine offers distinct advantages for celiac patients who need comprehensive support beyond the standard "just avoid gluten" advice:
Root Cause Focus: We don't just manage symptoms; we identify and address the underlying factors contributing to ongoing inflammation, poor healing, and persistent symptoms even on a gluten-free diet
Personalized Treatment: No two celiac disease patients are alike. Your treatment plan is customized based on your unique symptoms, nutritional status, genetic factors, concurrent health conditions, and health goals
Comprehensive Testing: Access to advanced functional medicine tests not typically available through conventional gastroenterology, including comprehensive nutritional panels, microbiome analysis, food sensitivity testing beyond gluten, and inflammatory markers
Natural Healing Support: Emphasis on diet optimization, targeted supplementation, herbal medicines, and lifestyle modifications to promote intestinal healing with minimal side effects
Whole-Person Care: We address how stress, sleep, hormones, thyroid function, other autoimmune conditions, and other body systems impact your celiac disease and overall health
Education & Empowerment: You'll understand what's happening in your body and why, with practical tools to maintain your digestive health and prevent complications long-term
Understanding Celiac: What you need to know
Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder that affects approximately 1 in 100 people worldwide, though many remain undiagnosed. When individuals with celiac disease consume gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye—their immune system launches an attack on the small intestine, specifically targeting and damaging the villi, tiny finger-like projections responsible for nutrient absorption.
Unlike a simple food allergy or intolerance, celiac disease is a genetic autoimmune condition that requires lifelong management. The damage to the intestinal villi leads to malabsorption of critical nutrients, triggering a cascade of health problems that extend far beyond digestive symptoms. Left untreated, celiac disease increases the risk of osteoporosis, infertility, neurological conditions, other autoimmune diseases, and certain types of cancer, particularly intestinal lymphoma.
Early diagnosis and proper treatment are essential. However, diagnosis is just the beginning—successful long-term management requires comprehensive support to heal the gut, restore nutrient levels, prevent complications, and maintain overall wellness.
Common Celiac Disease Symptoms We Address
Celiac disease presents with a wide range of symptoms that can vary significantly in severity and may affect
virtually any body system. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for proper management

Digestive Symptoms
Chronic diarrhea or constipation
Abdominal pain and cramping
Bloating and gas
Nausea and vomiting
Fatty, foul-smelling stools (steatorrhea)
Acid reflux or heartburn
Reduced appetite
Unintentional weight loss or difficulty gaining weight

Systemic Reactions
Persistent fatigue and low energy—often the most debilitating symptom
Iron-deficiency anemia that doesn't respond to supplementation
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies (B12, folate, vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, zinc)
Headaches and migraines
Brain fog and difficulty concentrating

Extra-intestinal Symptoms
Bone density loss (osteopenia or osteoporosis)
Joint pain and arthritis
Skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis)
Mouth ulcers and dental enamel defects
Depression and anxiety
Peripheral neuropathy (numbness/tingling)
Infertility or recurrent miscarriages
Elevated liver enzymes
Our Naturopathic Approach to Celiac Disease
Comprehensive Assessment
We begin with an in-depth evaluation of your complete health history, symptom timeline, dietary habits, stress levels, family history, and lifestyle factors. Advanced functional testing may include:
Comprehensive nutritional panels to assess vitamin and mineral deficiencies common in celiac disease
Comprehensive stool analysis to evaluate gut microbiome composition, digestive function, and inflammation markers
Food sensitivity testing to identify additional inflammatory triggers beyond gluten
Thyroid function panels (celiac patients have higher rates of thyroid disorders)
Bone density screening when appropriate
Inflammatory markers including C-reactive protein (CRP)
Antibody testing to monitor disease activity and gluten exposure
Optimized Gluten-Free Nutrition
While eliminating gluten is essential, simply going gluten-free isn't enough for optimal healing. We create personalized nutrition protocols that:
Ensure complete gluten elimination, including hidden sources in processed foods, medications, and supplements
Identify and address cross-reactive foods that may trigger similar immune responses
Emphasize nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory whole foods to support gut healing
Correct common pitfalls of gluten-free diets (high sugar, low fiber, nutrient-poor substitutes)
Provide practical guidance for label reading, dining out safely, and avoiding cross-contamination
Address other food sensitivities that may be contributing to ongoing symptoms
Support optimal blood sugar balance to reduce inflammation
Intestinal Healing and Restoration
Even after eliminating gluten, the damaged intestinal lining requires targeted support to heal properly. Our protocols include:
L-glutamine for intestinal tissue repair and barrier function
Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) to soothe and heal the gut lining
Aloe vera for anti-inflammatory and healing properties
Zinc carnosine to promote mucosal healing
Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) to reduce inflammation
Curcumin for powerful anti-inflammatory effects
Bone broth and collagen peptides for gut repair
Microbiome Restoration
The gut microbiome plays a critical role in celiac disease. Research shows that celiac patients often have dysbiosis (microbial imbalance) that can persist even on a gluten-free diet. We use:
Targeted probiotic therapy with specific strains shown to benefit celiac patients
Prebiotic fiber to nourish beneficial bacteria
Strategies to reduce harmful bacteria and restore healthy microbial diversity
Fermented foods when appropriate and tolerated
Antimicrobial herbs if small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is present
Targeted Nutritional Supplementation
Celiac disease commonly leads to multiple nutrient deficiencies due to years of malabsorption and ongoing intestinal inflammation. We address deficiencies through high-quality, gluten-free supplementation including:
Iron: For anemia, using gentle, well-absorbed forms
Vitamin B12 and Folate: Critical for energy, neurological function, and red blood cell production
Vitamin D: For bone health, immune regulation, and mood
Calcium and Magnesium: For bone density and neuromuscular function
Zinc: For immune function, tissue repair, and digestive health
Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K): Often depleted due to fat malabsorption
Digestive enzymes: To support optimal digestion and nutrient absorption
Immune System Modulation
Since celiac disease is an autoimmune condition, supporting balanced immune function is crucial:
Vitamin D optimization for immune regulation
Omega-3 fatty acids to modulate inflammatory responses
Herbal adaptogens to support stress resilience and immune balance
Antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress
Protocols to address other autoimmune conditions when present
Stress Management and Mind-Body Medicine
Chronic stress can trigger intestinal permeability (leaky gut), worsen inflammation, and impair healing. We incorporate:
Evidence-based stress reduction techniques
Mind-body therapies including meditation and deep breathing
Sleep optimization strategies (poor sleep increases inflammation)
Lifestyle modifications to support the gut-brain axis
Counseling on the emotional aspects of living with a chronic condition
Treatment Goals & Outcomes
Our naturopathic treatment protocols for celiac disease focus on achieving specific, measurable outcomes that improve your quality of life and long-term health:
Complete intestinal healing: Promoting repair and regeneration of damaged villi
Eliminate or significantly reduce symptoms: Addressing digestive complaints, fatigue, brain fog, and other manifestations
Restore optimal nutrient status: Correcting deficiencies and optimizing absorption
Reduce systemic inflammation: Measured through biomarkers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and antibody levels
Prevent complications: Including osteoporosis, additional autoimmune diseases, and nutritional deficiencies
Optimize bone health: Preventing or reversing bone density loss
Support thyroid function: Addressing concurrent thyroid disorders common in celiac disease
Enhance energy and vitality: Addressing fatigue and improving overall well-being
Improve digestive resilience: Better tolerance of foods and reduced reactivity
Provide education and empowerment: Giving you tools for lifelong success
Why Choose Dr. Dan Wool for Celiac Disease Treatment
Dr. Dan Wool is a licensed naturopathic doctor specializing in gastroenterology and digestive health. His practice in Scottsdale, Arizona has established a reputation for excellence in treating celiac disease and other complex digestive conditions with evidence-based natural medicine.
Personal Experience with Celiac Disease: Successfully managing his own celiac disease for 17 years provides unique insight and empathy
Specialized Expertise in Naturopathic Gastroenterology: Advanced training and extensive experience in treating celiac disease and other autoimmune digestive conditions
Evidence-Based Treatment Protocols: Utilizing therapies supported by clinical research and real-world results
Personalized, Patient-Centered Care: Recognizing that every patient's celiac disease journey is unique
Collaborative Approach: Working alongside your gastroenterologist and other healthcare providers
Comprehensive Testing and Monitoring: Using advanced diagnostics to guide treatment decisions and track progress
Commitment to Education: Empowering you with knowledge about your condition and treatment options
Convenient Scottsdale Location: Serving patients throughout the Phoenix metro area and Arizona via telehealth
Proven Track Record: Over 200 celiac disease patients successfully treated with natural protocols
Frequently Asked Questions about Celiac Disease
Can celiac disease be cured?
Currently, there is no cure for celiac disease. It is a lifelong autoimmune condition that requires permanent adherence to a strict gluten-free diet. However, with proper management including complete gluten elimination and comprehensive naturopathic support, most patients can achieve complete intestinal healing, eliminate symptoms, restore nutrient levels, and prevent complications. Many patients live full, healthy, vibrant lives with celiac disease. Dr. Wool has successfully managed his own celiac disease for 17 years, demonstrating that thriving with this condition is absolutely possible. The key is not just avoiding gluten, but optimizing your entire digestive health through targeted nutrition, supplementation, gut healing protocols, and lifestyle strategies.
What foods contain gluten that I need to avoid?
Gluten is found in wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. This includes obvious sources like bread, pasta, cereal, baked goods, and beer. However, gluten also hides in many unexpected places including soy sauce, salad dressings, processed meats, soups and broths, sauces and gravies, communion wafers, some medications and supplements, and cross-contaminated oats (unless certified gluten-free). Reading labels carefully is essential. Look for hidden gluten ingredients such as malt, brewer's yeast, wheat starch, and modified food starch. Dr. Wool provides comprehensive education on identifying gluten sources, reading labels, preventing cross-contamination, and finding safe gluten-free alternatives. Many packaged gluten-free products are highly processed and low in nutrients, so we emphasize whole, naturally gluten-free foods.
Why do I still have symptoms even though I'm gluten-free?
Many celiac patients continue experiencing symptoms despite following a gluten-free diet. Common reasons include hidden gluten exposure from cross-contamination or unexpected sources, concurrent food sensitivities or intolerances (dairy, corn, soy), small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), persistent nutrient deficiencies, ongoing intestinal inflammation, thyroid dysfunction, and other autoimmune conditions. Additionally, the intestinal damage from years of gluten exposure takes time to heal. Some patients have refractory celiac disease requiring additional interventions. Our comprehensive approach identifies and addresses these underlying factors through advanced testing, personalized nutrition protocols, gut healing therapies, microbiome restoration, and targeted supplementation. Most patients see significant improvement once these factors are properly addressed.
How long does it take for the intestines to heal after going gluten-free?
Intestinal healing timelines vary significantly based on age, severity of damage at diagnosis, how strictly gluten is eliminated, nutritional status, and concurrent health conditions. For children, healing typically occurs within 3 to 6 months. For adults, complete healing usually takes 2 years or longer. Some studies show that up to 60 percent of adults still have intestinal damage two years after diagnosis despite following a gluten-free diet. This is why comprehensive naturopathic support is so important. Our protocols accelerate healing through targeted gut repair nutrients, anti-inflammatory support, microbiome restoration, and correction of nutrient deficiencies. We monitor healing through symptom improvement, normalization of antibody levels, and when appropriate, follow-up endoscopy with your gastroenterologist. Most patients experience significant symptom improvement within 8 to 12 weeks of starting our comprehensive protocol.
What nutrient deficiencies are common with celiac disease?
Celiac disease damages the small intestine where most nutrients are absorbed, leading to multiple deficiencies. The most common include iron (causing anemia, fatigue), vitamin B12 and folate (affecting energy, mood, and neurological function), vitamin D (impacting bone health and immune function), calcium and magnesium (increasing osteoporosis risk), zinc (affecting immune function and healing), fat-soluble vitamins A, E, and K (due to fat malabsorption), and copper and selenium (important for antioxidant function). Even after going gluten-free, many patients remain deficient because intestinal healing takes time and gluten-free diets can be nutritionally inadequate. We conduct comprehensive nutritional testing and provide targeted, high-quality supplementation using gluten-free products. Proper repletion is essential for healing, energy, preventing complications, and overall health.
Is celiac disease genetic? Will my children get it?
Yes, celiac disease has a strong genetic component. People with a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with celiac disease have approximately a 1 in 10 risk of developing the condition themselves. The disease is associated with specific genetic markers (HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8), and about 95 percent of celiac patients carry these genes. However, carrying these genes doesn't guarantee developing celiac disease—only about 3 percent of people with these markers actually develop the condition. This suggests environmental triggers play a crucial role. If you have celiac disease, your children should be screened, especially if they develop symptoms. Genetic testing can identify risk, but it cannot diagnose celiac disease—only indicate susceptibility. We provide guidance on screening family members and support for families navigating multiple celiac diagnoses.
Can I eat oats if I have celiac disease?
Pure, uncontaminated oats are generally safe for most people with celiac disease, but there are important considerations. Regular oats are almost always cross-contaminated with wheat, barley, or rye during growing, harvesting, or processing. Only certified gluten-free oats guaranteed to be free from contamination should be consumed. Even pure oats contain a protein called avenin that can trigger immune responses in some celiac patients (estimated 5 to 10 percent). We recommend introducing certified gluten-free oats only after your intestines have healed and your symptoms are well-controlled. Start with small amounts and monitor for reactions including digestive symptoms, fatigue, or other manifestations. Some patients tolerate oats well while others do not. Dr. Wool provides personalized guidance on whether oats are appropriate for you based on your individual situation, symptom patterns, and antibody levels.
What is the connection between celiac disease and other autoimmune conditions?
Celiac disease significantly increases the risk of developing other autoimmune conditions. Studies show people with celiac disease are at higher risk for type 1 diabetes, autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto's or Graves' disease), autoimmune liver disease, Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Research indicates that the earlier celiac disease is diagnosed and treated, the lower the risk of developing additional autoimmune conditions. This underscores the importance of early diagnosis and strict adherence to a gluten-free diet. Our comprehensive approach includes screening for concurrent autoimmune conditions, supporting overall immune balance, reducing systemic inflammation, and addressing multiple conditions when present. Many patients with celiac disease also have Hashimoto's thyroiditis, requiring integrated treatment of both conditions. Dr. Wool has extensive experience managing multiple autoimmune conditions simultaneously.
How do I prevent cross-contamination with gluten at home?
Preventing cross-contamination is essential for successful celiac disease management. Key strategies include using separate cutting boards, colanders, and utensils for gluten-free foods; thoroughly cleaning shared surfaces before preparing gluten-free meals; having dedicated gluten-free toaster and toaster oven or using toaster bags; storing gluten-free foods separately and above gluten-containing items; using separate condiments (butter, peanut butter, jam) to avoid crumb contamination; labeling gluten-free items clearly in shared households; thoroughly washing hands after handling gluten-containing foods; and being aware that crumbs from shared kitchen tools can cause symptoms. In shared households, some families find it easier to maintain a completely gluten-free home. Dr. Wool provides practical, detailed guidance on safe food preparation, kitchen organization, dining out safely, and managing social situations. His personal experience with celiac disease offers invaluable real-world insights.
What to Expect: Your Celiac Disease Treatment Timeline
As a naturopathic gastroenterologist with personal experience living with celiac disease, Dr. Dan Wool combines the latest functional medicine research with time-tested natural therapies to create comprehensive, individualized treatment plans. Our approach focuses on identifying and treating the root causes of your symptoms rather than simply managing them.
While every patient's celiac disease journey is unique, here's a general timeline of what you can expect:
Ready to Take Control of Your Celiac Disease Today?
With caring attention, extensive knowledge and a comprehensive approach, Dr. Dan Wool is the leading naturopathic doctor in Scottsdale, AZ for celiac disease treatment. We serve patients throughout the entire Valley of the Sun including Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert and across the state of Arizona via telehealth.
If you're tired of struggling with celiac symptoms despite being gluten-free, ready to address nutrient deficiencies and optimize healing, seeking comprehensive support beyond the standard "just avoid gluten" advice, or looking to work with someone who truly understands the celiac disease journey from personal experience, Dr. Wool invites you to schedule a free 15-minute consultation online today.
You don't have to accept persistent symptoms or nutritional deficiencies as inevitable. With the right comprehensive approach, most celiac patients can achieve complete intestinal healing, optimal nutrient status, vibrant energy, and excellent quality of life. Dr. Wool has been living proof of this for 17 years—and he's ready to help you achieve the same success!

