What is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that mainly affects the small intestines. Celiac disease usually occurs among individuals who do not tolerate the intake of Gluten. You will know the harmful reaction to Gluten when the immune system does not respond well by producing several types of autoantibodies that affect many different organs. The response leads to an inflammatory response and possibly villous atrophy (the shortening of the villi lining in the small intestines). Villous atrophy can cause poor absorption of nutrients, which can also lead to other problems as anemia.

Some patients may have minor intestinal changes, while some others may experience severe symptoms before a diagnosis. However, the more screening, the more people are diagnosed without symptoms. A strict lifelong Gluten free diet can help to manage the condition. This diet allows the intestinal mucosa to recover and lowers the risk of complications in most patients. If Celiac Disease is left untreated, the state may lead to cancers such as intestinal lymphoma and an increase in the risk of early death.

What causes Celiac Disease?

The cause of the celiac disease is unknown. Researchers have identified both genetic and environmental triggers. Studies found that individuals with a parent, sibling, or child with celiac disease are ten times more likely to develop the condition.

How is Celiac Disease treated?

Integrative treatment of celiac disease can involve testing, diagnosis, dietary modifications, and supplementation based on the individual’s needs.

The best treatment for celiac disease is to follow a gluten-free diet to avoid foods that contain Gluten. For most people, following this diet will prevent further damage, stop symptoms, and heal existing intestinal.

Most people realize that eliminating Gluten from their diets radically improves and allows the intestine to heal.
People with celiac disease may also benefit from taking vitamin and mineral supplements to prevent or address deficiencies.