Celiac Disease

What Is Celiac Disease

Celiac disease—also known as gluten-sensitive enteropathy—is a digestive autoimmune disorder, in which the ingestion of gluten results in damage to the lining of the small intestine.  Gluten is a type of protein found in many grains, like wheat, buckwheat, barley, rye, and spelt, among others. Gluten gives bread its springy texture and is used in diverse products such as pills, creams, and beauty treatments. Gluten can also hide in other foods and food products like beer, soy sauce, bacon bits, blue cheese, flavored coffee, and more! The damage celiac disease can do to the intestine makes it difficult for the body to properly absorb nutrients, such as fat, iron, calcium, and folate, which can have very serious health implications.

A study done by the Mayo Clinic and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) estimates that approximately 1 in 141 Americans have celiac disease. Other studies say it could be closer to 1 in 133—though exact numbers are hard to gauge as celiac disease often goes undiagnosed—in fact, it’s estimated that as many as two and a half million Americans are currently undiagnosed.

 

What Causes Celiac Disease

Risk Factors For Celiac Disease

Diagnosing Celiac Disease

Symptoms of Celiac Disease

Prognosis

Living With Celiac Disease

A Gluten-free Diet

Prevention

Medication And Treatment

Complementary and Alternative Treatment

A Gluten-Free Diet

When To Contact A Doctor

Questions For Your Doctor

Questions For A Doctor