Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by an adverse reaction to gluten, a protein found in grains like wheat, barley, and rye, celiac disease can significantly impact the quality of life for those affected. Together, we’ll explore celiac disease, understanding its definition, symptoms, diagnosis, and management strategies for living a healthy and fulfilling life.
Definition and Cause
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in the body when exposed to gluten. Gluten is a protein that provides elasticity to wheat-based products like bread and pasta. In celiac patients, consuming gluten damages the small intestine, compromising nutrient absorption.
What are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of celiac disease can vary greatly from person to person. Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation, while others may exhibit more generic symptoms like fatigue, irritability, or weight loss. In many cases, symptoms may go unrecognized or attributed to other conditions, making the diagnosis of celiac disease a challenge.
How to Get Diagnosed?
Diagnosing celiac disease often involves a combination of blood tests and biopsies of the small intestine. Blood tests can detect the presence of specific antibodies for celiac disease, while biopsies confirm intestinal damage. It’s essential to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis, as self-diagnosis or delayed diagnosis can lead to serious complications.
How to Manage Celiac Disease
Managing celiac disease requires strict adherence to a gluten-free diet. This means completely eliminating foods containing wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. Fortunately, in recent years, awareness of celiac disease has grown, leading to increased availability of gluten-free products in grocery stores and expanded options in restaurants.
However, avoiding gluten can be challenging, as gluten may be present in unexpected foods or contaminate foods that should theoretically be gluten-free. Careful reading of food labels and clear communication with restaurants are crucial to avoid accidental contamination.
Celiac disease is a condition that requires a conscious and committed approach to managing one’s diet. With the right attention and elimination of gluten from the diet, many people with celiac disease can lead a healthy and active life. Ongoing research on the topic is helping to improve understanding of celiac disease and increase resources available to those affected. Public awareness and community support are essential to ensuring a better quality of life.
People with celiac disease should avoid gluten, a protein found in certain cereals like wheat, rye, barley, and their derivatives. Therefore, it’s important to choose foods that are gluten-free. Here are some recommended foods for people with celiac disease:
Gluten-free grains: Opt for grains like rice, corn, quinoa, millet, and buckwheat. Make sure they are labeled as “gluten-free.” Gluten-free flours: Use alternative flours such as rice flour, corn flour, almond flour, coconut flour, or buckwheat flour for cooking and baking. Gluten-free bread and baked goods: Many options for gluten-free bread, cookies, muffins, and other baked goods are available today. You can find gluten-free products in many health food stores or supermarkets. Fresh fruits and vegetables: Fresh fruits and vegetables are naturally gluten-free and are an important part of a healthy diet for those with celiac disease. Lean proteins: Fresh meats, fish, eggs, and unprocessed dairy products are generally safe. However, be cautious with packaged or processed products, as they may contain gluten. Dairy products: Many dairy products are gluten-free, but it’s important to check the ingredients in processed products. Plain milk, cheese, and yogurt without additives should be safe. Legumes and nuts: Beans, lentils, chickpeas, nuts, and seeds are excellent sources of protein and are naturally gluten-free. Packaged gluten-free products: There are many packaged products specially prepared for people with celiac disease, such as gluten-free pasta, cereals, snacks, and sweets.
It’s essential to read food labels carefully, and if you’re unsure, contact the manufacturer to confirm the presence or absence of gluten. Additionally, it’s advisable to consult a dietitian or celiac disease specialist for personalized advice and to ensure a balanced and safe diet.
*The information contained in this article is not for diagnostic purposes and in no case replaces medical advice. We remind you that in case of disorders and/or illnesses, it is always necessary to consult your general practitioner or specialist.
Ig – @fairness_mag
