Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that impacts over 2.5 million Americans. When people with this condition consume gluten (a protein present in wheat, rye, and barley), their immune system mistakenly attacks the small intestine. This results in damage and disrupts nutrient absorption. The only effective treatment for celiac disease is adhering to a lifelong gluten-free diet.
Celiac Disease Treatment:
The key to managing celiac disease is to follow a strict gluten-free diet. Within a few weeks of starting this diet, the small intestine usually begins to heal, and symptoms improve. Even small amounts of gluten can be detrimental, so it’s crucial to avoid all foods and drinks that contain or are made with wheat, rye, or barley. This requires careful reading of labels on prepared or processed foods and verifying gluten-free options at restaurants.
Celiac Disease Diet:
Avoiding gluten requires careful food choices. Instead of wheat-based products, opt for:
Rice
Potatoes and sweet potatoes
Corn and popcorn
Beans
Nuts
Oats
Millet
Quinoa
Amaranth
Gluten-free labeled pastas, breads, and cereals
For beverages, choose:
Wine
Hard cider
Gluten-free beer
Also, prefer:
Fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables without breading or sauces
Meats, fish, and poultry without added ingredients
Dairy products without fillers or additives
Homemade soups, salad dressings, and desserts
Gluten-Free Diet:
To manage celiac disease symptoms, a strict gluten-free diet is necessary. This allows the small intestine to heal and prevents future complications. Avoid foods made with wheat, wheat flour, rye, barley, durum, farina, graham flour, malt, and semolina. Consult with a doctor about consuming oats, as gluten-free labeled oats may be acceptable.
Symptoms of Celiac Disease:
Symptoms vary between children and adults and can include digestive issues such as diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, bloating, gas, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Non-digestive symptoms in adults can include anemia, osteoporosis, dermatitis herpetiformis, mouth ulcers, headaches, fatigue, nerve damage, joint pain, hyposplenism, and elevated liver enzymes.
Celiac Disease Symptoms in Females:
Specific symptoms in females may include irregular periods, early menopause, and miscarriage. Untreated celiac disease can lead to infertility in both females and males.
Celiac Disease Symptoms in Children:
Children with celiac disease often experience more pronounced intestinal problems, such as bloating, constipation, diarrhea, pale and foul-smelling stool, and upset stomach or vomiting.
FAQ?
It is caused by an immune reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, in genetically predisposed individuals.
Diagnosis involves blood tests to detect specific antibodies and a biopsy of the small intestine to confirm damage.
The primary treatment is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet, which allows the intestine to heal and symptoms to resolve.