What is Celiac Disease?

If you have been diagnosed with celiac disease, or know someone with celiac disease, you know doubt have many questions. In this article, we will answer some of those questions, as well as provide resources for those seeking more information. So what is celiac disease? Celiac disease is a disorder in some individuals (primarily women) in which damage is done to the intestines from the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in grains such as wheat, rye, and oats. Celiac disease is most common in women of northwestern European descent, but it can affect those of any race and nationality. The damage gluten does to the intestines is what prevents the body from absorbing the necessary nutrients from the food we eat. These symptoms can and usually do include, vitamins, minerals, protein, and just about any other vital nutrient you can think of. Many celiacs often suffer malnutrition, even though they consume large amounts of food. They are typically very thin. Osteoporosis is one of the more serious problems for those with celiac disease (due to the inability of the body to absorb calcium). Celiacs are also often anemic for the same reason. And many are lactose intolerant, but that commonly disappears after following a gluten free diet for some time. For most sufferers of celiac disease, the damage can be reversed through strict adherence to a gluten free diet. But the celiac diet is unforgiving. If you cheat on your "diet" you can expect the damage to return. Celiac disease is a serious condition, but with proper precautions, you should have no problem living a normal lifestyle. You do need to take the time to inform yourself and your friends and family and learn how to avoid all forms of gluten in your diet. You need to plan ahead when going out, and when traveling, so you won't find yourself compromising your diet. There is an abundance of information out there for those looking for gluten free foods, and recipes, as well as advice on successfully living one day at a time with celiac disease.