What is Celiac Disease?

Celiac Disease is an autoimmune condition that is caused by an immune reaction to eating gluten. If a person has Celiac, eating gluten will trigger an immune response in the small intestine. As time goes on this reaction damages the small intestine and prevents it from absorbing nutrients.  The damage to the intestine causes many symptoms such as bloating, fatigue, weight loss, anemia, and so much more (there are actually more than 300 symptoms that vary based on the person!). The only solution to Celiac disease is a strict gluten free diet, no cross contamination, no cheating or else damage will continue to the small intestine. If the diet is not followed someone with Celiac can suffer from infertility, malnutrition, various cancers, and more. Therefore, it’s very important for there to be awareness on what Celiac is to avoid any mistake or misconceptions. 

For Celiac disease awareness month we will be going over and shining the light on some truths about Celiac disease! 

Myth 1: Celiac Disease is just a gluten sensitivity 

Truth: Unfortunately, Celiac disease is so much more than a sensitivity. It is an autoimmune disorder. Therefore, there can be many long term issues if someone with Celiac disease doesn’t comply with the gluten free diet. 

Myth 2: A Gluten Free Diet is Just a Trend 

Truth: For those with Celiac disease a gluten free diet is medically necessary, since it is the only treatment to prevent the immune response. Gluten free diets have become popular as a weight loss diet which makes it difficult for Celiacs to eat out of the comfort of their homes as many establishments don’t know how to properly prepare a completely gluten free meal, not just a meal that is made with gluten free ingredients. 

Myth 3: People with Celiac Disease Can Tolerate Small Amounts of Gluten 

Truth: The tiniest amount of gluten, even something as small as 200 ppm (parts per million), a tiny crumb, can damage the small intestine. Therefore, cross contamination is a big concern for those with Celiac making it harder to eat at restaurants or food that others prepare. It is very important to exercise caution that there is no contact with gluten when preparing food for a Celiac. 

Myth 4: Celiac Disease Can Be Outgrown 

Truth: Celiac Disease is a lifelong condition. It is genetic and once those genes are activated (researchers believe they activate during a period of stress) a person has Celiac for the rest of their lives, there is no cure for it. They need to maintain a gluten free diet for the rest of their lives. 

Myth 5: Celiac Disease is Rare 

Truth: Celiac Disease is more common than most think, it is just not talked about as much since there is very little research on it. It affects 1 in 100 people worldwide. Even so, many go undiagnosed as there is such a wide range of symptoms making it difficult to pinpoint. 

Now that you know a little more about Celiac disease you can help someone that may have it and help them exercise the right precautions for their diet. Next time you’re in a restaurant pay attention to their gluten free options and if they take the right precautions for it! 

HAPPY Celiac DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH!