Rebecca Adlington Reveals Devastating Health Diagnosis and Pleads for Help in Emotional Update

BBC sports presenter and Olympic gold medalist Rebecca Adlington has revealed she’s recently been diagnosed with coeliac disease – and she’s already using her platform to raise awareness and push for change.

The 36-year-old swimmer shared the news in a heartfelt video posted to Coeliac UK’s Instagram, where she spoke candidly about the impact of the condition and why she’s backing a campaign to protect access to gluten-free prescriptions, reported the Mirror.

“Hello everyone,” she began, “As someone newly diagnosed with coeliac disease, I have definitely quickly learnt how vital gluten-free prescriptions are for managing this condition. But in some areas, these prescriptions are being totally cut. Coeliac UK is handing a petition to Number 10 to make sure we’re heard, so please sign and share the petition today.”

For those unfamiliar, coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition where the body reacts badly to gluten, which can be found in common foods like bread, pasta, cereal, cakes, and some sauces. Eating gluten triggers the immune system to attack the body’s own tissues, damaging the small intestine and stopping it from absorbing nutrients properly. Symptoms range from stomach pain and bloating to fatigue, constipation, and diarrhoea – making everyday life tough without careful management.

Rebecca’s video struck a chord with many. Managing a new diagnosis like this can be overwhelming, especially when prescriptions for gluten-free essentials are being cut in some parts of the country. It’s not just about convenience – it’s a matter of health and access.

Coeliac UK has now closed their petition, but not without making a splash – they gathered an impressive 22,826 signatures and delivered them straight to 10 Downing Street on 19 March. “The petition, supported by individuals from across the UK, highlighted the importance of protecting access to gluten-free prescriptions for people with coeliac disease, particularly those most in need,” the charity wrote.

Supporters flooded the comments with thanks for both the charity and Rebecca. “Yes @beckadlington, thanks for helping to raise awareness. Gluten-free food should be affordable and accessible to EVERYONE who needs it,” one follower said. Another added: “Awesome to have @beckadlington backing the campaign! What a role model!”

It’s not the first time Rebecca has opened up about something deeply personal. Last year, she shared the heartbreak of losing her daughter, Harper, who was stillborn at 20 weeks. “I hated my body,” she told The Sunday Times. “I couldn’t help but blame myself.” Even after a post-mortem found no cause, she admitted, “It was very hard for me to accept.” Through grief and now a major lifestyle shift, Rebecca’s resilience is clear – and her voice is making a real difference.