Celiac Disease Meaning
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that develops in people who are genetically predisposed to it.
The disease occurs when the ingested gluten, a protein found in barley, rye, and wheat, damages the small intestine.
The small intestine has villi or thin finger-like projections that help in nutrient absorption. In celiac disease, the immune system attacks the small intestine, where the villi get damaged and cannot absorb nutrients.
The celiac disease symptoms are gastrointestinal disorders and inability to absorb nutrients leading to malnutrition, diarrhoea and others. Maintaining a strict gluten-free diet is the best celiac disease treatment option. Having other health problems like Type I diabetes is a significant celiac disease risk factor that aggravates the problem.