Ever imagined being cautious about every breadcrumb that you encounter – For those who are struggling with celiac disease, a simple pleasure like biting into a croissant takes careful consideration. Amidst the aisles, ‘gluten-free’ labels become lifelines, offering hope to those navigating a gluten-filled world. Upside Health is here to unveil why gluten and celiac disease are far from friendly companions, what is celiac disease, and its treatment.
What is Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease is an inherited autoimmune disorder that affects the intestine’s ability to absorb nutrients from food. It is triggered by the consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It hampers the immune system to produce antibodies against it. These antibodies damage the lining of the small intestine called mucosa. Damage in the mucosa impairs the ability to absorb nutrients from food, causing nutritional deficiencies.
Symptoms
Symptoms of celiac disease vary widely among people, which can make it hard to recognize. Some people don’t notice any symptoms at all. Some experience indigestion, fatigue, Weakness, and skin problems but they can’t come to a conclusion with these symptoms that they have celiac disease but when bigger damage is done people with celiac disease pay more attention to their health. Some common symptoms include:
1. Digestive Issues: Diarrhea, constipation, bloating, abdominal pain and fatty stools.
2. Fatigue and Weakness: Unexplained tiredness, pallor (pale complexion), cold hands, brittle or concave nails, headaches, mouth sores and lack of energy.
3. Skin Problems: Dermatitis herpetiformis, a skin rash characterised by itchy and blistering skin.
4. Weight Loss: Unintentional weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite.
5. Anemia: Due to deficiencies in iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12.
6. Bone and Joint Pain: Osteoporosis and joint pain due to nutrient absorption problems.
7. Neurological Symptoms: Peripheral neuropathy, headaches, and seizures in rare cases.
Causes
Celiac disease is autoimmune disease that are partly inherited (genetic disorders). That means a particular gene mutation that’s passed down through generations makes you more susceptible to developing it. But not everyone with the gene mutation develops the disease, some develop this disese getting triggred by ingestion of gluten. And when individuals with celiac disease consume gluten-filled foods, their immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the small intestine. This damages the tiny hair-like structures called villi, which are responsible for nutrient absorption.
Diagnosis
There are various steps in diagnosing celiac disease. To accurately identify the condition one must follow these steps:
Blood Test: Blood tests, such as tissue transglutaminase and anti-endomysial antibodies (EMA), can detect the presence of specific antibodies produced triggered by gluten.
Endoscopy and Biopsy: If blood tests indicate celiac disease, a small intestine biopsy is often required to confirm the diagnosis. During an endoscopy, a small tissue sample is taken from the lining of the small intestine to assess the extent of damage to the villi.
Treatment
The one and only effective treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet. Which means eliminating all sources of gluten, including wheat, barley, and rye, from your diet. Gluten-free alternatives like rice, corn, quinoa, and certified gluten-free oats should be consumed safely. Other than strict gluten-free diet there are various measures that can be helpful while treating this condition. Like visiting dietitian, proper medication aand follow ups, maintaining good lifestyle and sound sleep.
Consult a Dietitian: Working with a registered dietitian who specializes in celiac disease can help you navigate the challenges of a gluten-free diet and ensure you’re meeting your nutritional needs.
Educate Yourself: Learning to read food labels and recognizing hidden sources of gluten is essential to avoid accidental exposure.
Follow-Up Care: Regular check-ups to monitor your progress and assess your nutrient levels.
Medication: In some cases, doctors can prescribe medications to alleviate specific symptoms like inflammation or nutrient deficiencies.
Celiac disease is a serious disorder that requires diligent gluten-free diet. Early diagnosis and recommended dietary changes can improving quality of life. If you suspect you or a loved one has celiac disease, consult a doctor for proper guidance. Remember, with the right approach, individuals with celiac disease can lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
Upside Health prioritises your wellbeing without compromising on taste and suggests some good snacking options just for you because you deserve the best! We understand the seriousness of celiac disease and we ensure that all our products are absolutely gluten-free and are produced in the zero-gluten facilities.
