Celiac disease is a common autoimmune disorder that affects more than 2 million Americans. It is also known as celiac sprue disease, nontropical sprue, or gluten-sensitive enteropathy. No one knows the exact causes of celiac disease, although genetics may be involved. (According to the National Institutes of Health, celiac disease affects 1 in 133 Americans. For those with a family history of the disease, the chances of developing it increase to 1 in 22.) The Celiac Disease Foundation estimates that 97% of all cases of celiac disease are undiagnosed.
Celiac disease is activated by consuming the gluten proteins found in grains such as wheat, rye, barley, and possibly oats. In children, the symptoms are primarily gastrointestinal, while in adults, other body systems are commonly affected. Some of the common symptoms of celiac disease include:
- Recurring bloating, gas, or abdominal pain
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation (or both)
- Bone or joint pain
- Anemia
- Weight loss
- Fatigue, weakness, or lack of energy
What is celiac disease?
Celiac disease affects the villi (tiny, finger-like projections) that line the wall of the small intestine. When the villi are damaged, the body is unable to absorb important nutrients needed for health, a condition called malabsorption. If allowed to progress, this can eventually lead to a wide range of health problems, including malnutrition, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, loss of bone density, and damage to the nervous system, liver, and other vital organs.
What you can do
If you suspect you have celiac disease, it’s important to tell your healthcare provider. Several tests are available that can accurately diagnose this condition.
Your symptoms can be greatly alleviated by switching to a gluten-free diet. By eliminating gluten-containing foods such as wheat, barley, rye, and possibly oats, you’ll give your body the chance to heal and recover.
Lifestyle changes including diet and nutrition can play an important role in the management of celiac disease. Ask your healthcare provider to help you develop a therapeutic lifestyle change plan that addresses not only the symptoms, but the underlying causes of this condition.
