Coeliac disease is an auto-immune disease in which gluten - a protein found in wheat, rye, barley and oats - causes the body to produce antibodies that attack its own tissues.

Dandenong North resident Angela Leiminger, 51, was the first of the sisters to be diagnosed, in 2002.

The diagnosis came after years of unexplained anaemia, nausea, fatigue, weight loss, stomach cramps and depression.

"My initial reaction was relief," she said.

"I finally had an answer after years of not knowing why I always felt ill."

Lifestyle changes were difficult at first.

"Eating out became something of an ordeal rather than a great night out. I lost the freedom and spontaneity because planning was a must."

Mrs Leiminger said she and her sisters were perfect examples of how coeliac disease tended to run in families.

She said people with a family history of coeliac disease should get tested for it.

Her sister Catherine Neeson, of Noble Park North, said she experienced nausea, chest pain, faintness and palpations before her diagnosis four years ago.

Eileen Belmuda, 54, was the last to be diagnosed after she had a blood test and biopsy in June 2008.

She said people shouldn't think of the disease as a life sentence.

"I was glad to make the changes that would help me feel better."