subject: What Is Celiac Disease [print this page] What is Celiac Disease? What is Celiac Disease?
Celiac Disease (CD) is a lifelong digestive disorder affecting children and adults. When people with CD eat foods that contain gluten, it creates an immune-mediated toxic reaction that causes damage to the small intestine and does not allow food to be properly absorbed. Even small amounts of gluten in foods can affect those with CD and cause health problems. Damage can occur to the small bowel even when there are no symptoms present.
Gluten is the common name for the proteins in specific grains that are harmful to persons with celiac disease. These proteins are found in ALL forms of wheat (including durum, semolina, spelt, kamut, einkorn and faro) and related grains rye, barley and triticale and MUST be eliminated.
What is gluten?
Gluten is the common name for the proteins in specific grains found in wheat, rye and barley. Gluten helps make bread elastic, providing the chewy texture that bread has when eaten. These proteins are found in ALL forms of wheat and must be eliminated if you have been diagnosed with Celiac Disease.
Symptoms of Celiac Disease:
Recurring bloating, gas or abdominal pain.
Chronic diarrhea, constipation or both.
Unexplained weight loss or weight gain.
Bone or joint pain.
Fatigue or lack of energy
Delayed growth or onset of puberty
Canker sores inside mouth
Infertility in males and females
Tooth discoloration or loss of enamel
If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately. Do not self-diagnose, as this can result in false negative test results and lead to further health problems!
For more information on Celiac Disease and living gluten-free, visit http://www.GlutenFreeFaces.com, your proven and trusted gluten-free social network!
