Celiac Disease: Gluten Free Diet (cont.)

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What is celiac disease?

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Celiac disease is also known as celiac sprue, nontropical sprue, and gluten-sensitive enteropathy. The exact cause of celiac disease is not clear, however, the outcome is well established. This disease effects the small intestine and its ability to absorb nutrients, resulting in deficiencies and health complications. For more, please read the Celiac Disease article.

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. When you have celiac disease your body reacts to gluten as if it were toxic. This reaction occurs in the small intestine and ends up damaging the mucosal surface (the inner lining of the small intestine). When the mucosal surface is damaged the small intestine is not able to absorb nutrients properly. These nutrients include vitamins, calcium, carbohydrates, protein, and fats.

What are the symptoms of celiac disease?

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The symptoms of Celiac disease include:

  • Gas

  • Recurring stomach pain and bloating

  • Diarrhea

  • Constipation

  • Weight loss/weight gain

  • Fatigue

  • Change in mood

  • Pale, foul-smelling, or fatty stools

  • Bone or joint pain

  • Unexplained anemia

  • Very itchy skin rash with blisters called dermatitis herpetiformis

  • Muscle cramps

  • Tingling numbness in the legs

  • Pale sores in the mouth, called aphthous ulcers

  • Osteoporosis

  • Tooth discoloration or loss of enamel

  • Failure to thrive in infants

  • Delayed growth

Patient Comments

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Gluten Free Diet (Celiac Disease) - Symptoms Question: Describe the symptoms associated with celiac disease, or the symptoms that caused you to change to a gluten-free diet.
Gluten Free Diet (Celiac Disease) - Diagnosis Question: Describe the tests and exams you had that led to a diagnosis of celiac disease.
Gluten Free Diet (Celiac Disease) - Dietary Restrictions Question: If you omit gluten from your diet, what foods do you no longer eat, or eat in moderation?
Gluten Free Diet (Celiac Disease) - Safe Foods Question: If you are on a gluten-free diet, what foods are OK to eat? What new foods have you added to your diet?
Gluten Free Diet (Celiac Disease) - Resources Question: Please share resources, organizations, websites, or products you have found helpful in learning more about becoming gluten free.

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