Did you know that gluten intolerance can lead to celiac disease? Celiac disease is a severe autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine. This article will discuss what celiac disease is, the symptoms of celiac disease, and how it is treated. We will also provide some tips for living with celiac disease.

What is Celiac Disease? 

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine. It is caused by a reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When someone with celiac disease eats foods containing gluten, their immune system responds by damaging the lining of their small intestine. This leads to a variety of symptoms.

Celiac Disease Symptoms

Symptoms of celiac disease can vary from person to person. Some common symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and weight loss. In some cases, people with celiac disease may also experience fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, mouth ulcers, and problems with concentration or memory.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential to see a doctor for a diagnosis. Celiac disease left untreated, can lead to serious health complications:

  • Lactose intolerance. After eating or drinking dairy products that contain lactose, you might experience abdominal discomfort and diarrhea if your small intestine is damaged. 
  • Nervous system problems. Some people with celiac disease develop neurological issues like seizures or peripheral neuropathy of the hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy).
  • Cancer. People who don't follow a gluten-free diet are at a greater risk of developing several types of cancer, including intestinal lymphoma and small bowel cancer.
  • Miscarriage and infertility. Problems with ovulation and hormone production can be caused by calcium malabsorption and vitamin D deficiency.
  • Malnutrition. If your small intestine cannot absorb all of the nutrients, this may happen. Anemia and weight loss can be caused by malnourishment. Malnutrition in children might lead to poor growth and stature.
  • Bone weakening. A lack of calcium and vitamin D in the gut may cause softening of the bones (rickets or osteomalacia) in children and lose bone density (osteopenia or osteoporosis) in adults.

How is Celiac Disease Treated?

Celiac disease is treated with a gluten-free diet, which means that people with celiac disease must avoid all foods containing gluten. It can be not easy to follow a gluten-free diet, but many resources are available to help you get started. There are also many gluten-free products available in grocery stores and online.

Tips for living with Celiac Disease

Living with celiac disease can be a challenge, but leading a healthy life with this condition is possible. Here are some tips for living with celiac disease:

  • Educate yourself about celiac disease and the gluten-free diet. The more you know about your condition, the easier it will be to manage it. There are many resources available online and in bookstores.
  • Make sure you read food labels carefully. Many foods contain hidden sources of gluten, so it is essential to be vigilant when reading labels.
  • Be prepared for gluten-free challenges when dining out or traveling. It can be not easy to find gluten-free options when eating out, so plan and bring along some snacks or meals if necessary.
  • Get support from family and friends. Having a supportive network can make a living with celiac disease much more manageable. There are also many online support groups available if you need additional support.

Celiac disease is a severe condition, but it is possible to live a healthy life. By educating yourself about the situation and being prepared for challenges, you can make managing celiac disease more straightforward.

How can you Maintain a Healthy Gut with Celiac?

Maintaining a healthy gut while living with celiac disease can be challenging, but it is possible. Here are some tips for keeping your gut healthy:

  • Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are high in fiber and nutrients, which can help keep your gut healthy.
  • Drink plenty of water. Drinking plenty of water helps keep your digestive system functioning correctly.
  • Avoid processed foods. Processed foods often contain unhealthy additives and chemicals that damage the gut lining. Instead, focus on eating whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible.
  • Get regular exercise. Exercise helps improve gut health by promoting regular bowel movements.
  • Manage stress. Stress can hurt gut health, so it is crucial to find ways to manage stress. Meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises can all help reduce stress levels.

Digestive Health Partners Can Help with Celiac Disease

If you are suffering from Celiac Disease, we can provide you with more information and care. We encourage you to contact us and set up an appointment to help diagnose and find an effective treatment plan.