Celiac Disease: Did you know?

Going gluten-free isn't a trend for individuals who have it; it's a way of life. Celiac disease is caused by an autoimmune reaction to gluten, which is a protein found in wheat and other grains. This reaction results in damage to the intestinal walls, which can lead to many other serious health issues. To help you better understand Celiac disease and those who have it, we've put together a “did-you-know” guide.

Celiac disease vs. gluten intolerance

Celiac Disease

When the immune system reacts negatively to gluten, damaging the inner lining of the small bowel which reduces the ability to absorb nutrients. If treated early, the damage can be reversed. With strict adherence to a gluten-free diet, the damaged tissues may heal.

Symptoms are not always consistent but can include:

• Gas, diarrhea or constipation, bloating, nausea, and/or vomiting.
• Feelings of exhaustion, unhappiness, etc.

Some don’t have symptoms at all, which can make Celiac disease difficult to diagnose.

Gluten Intolerance

A sensitivity to gluten that does not involve the individual’s immune system.

Diagnosis

Celiac disease is diagnosed through a combination of blood tests, small-bowel tipsy and recovery from symptoms with a gluten-free diet. People who go undiagnosed or untreated are of higher risk of malnutrition, osteoporosis, anemia, some cancers, infertility, dental defects and other issues.

Treatment

The only treatment is to continually follow a lifelong gluten-free diet.