In today’s world where eating healthy and staying fit is the number one priority, there are many diets introduced for the human body. Be it a Keto diet, gluten-free diet, Vegan diet, or any other diet, the goal is to eat healthy food. But did you know that gluten is not only tolerated well enough but also has a disease associated with it? Yes, Celiac disease is an illness that is caused by eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, or rye.
In this blog, we are going to understand how gluten affects our digestive system, the symptoms of celiac disease, and its treatment. If you are someone seeking advice for the cure of celiac disease then this blog is for you.
How Does Celiac Affect Our Digestive System?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune reaction that is triggered by ingesting gluten. It is very different from gluten intolerance, as it can cause serious damage to your small intestine. When you eat gluten and If you are allergic to it, then your immune system will produce antibodies to fight gluten.
These antibodies can damage the lining of your small intestine, which further can impair its ability to absorb nutrients from your food. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies and malabsorption. Common food with gluten consists of pasta, bread, cereal, baked goods, and beer.
Symptoms And Causes
For many, this disease can be genetic and can be found in the line of the family, and for many, it can be an after-effect of surgery, pregnancy, or illness. The early detection of this illness can help you make informed changes to your diet. Doctors have found that it can be detected in children who just started eating solids, or as adults.
The symptoms of celiac disease can either be responsive or non-responsive. You might have gastrointestinal symptoms, iron deficiency, or malnutrition, such as
- Stomach pain
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Pale complexion
- Fatigue
- Mouth ulcers
- Severe headaches
- Abnormal periods
- Weakening of muscles
- Late puberty
- Signs of irritability or depression
- Lactose intolerance
Difference Between Celiac Disease And Dermatitis Herpetiformis
In simple words, gluten intolerance is different from gluten illness. When you eat gluten and develop a rash on your elbows, knees, torso, scalp, or butt, then it is called dermatitis hepetiformis. It means that eating gluten cannot harm your digestive system but can give you a “Gluten rash”.
Managing Celiac Disease
Celiac disease does not have a cure but can be managed through strict diet plans and adhering to it. Here are the key components to keep in mind when managing celiac disease.
✔ Say No To Gluten
Gluten is something that is found in every other food item, either packaged or baked. You need to be careful while buying groceries and read the labels for any gluten or derivative components. These include bread, pasta, cookies, sauces, breakfast cereals, pizza, and battered or fried foods. Avoid drinking alcohol as most of them contain gluten like beer or whiskey.
✔ Greens And Fruits
Vegetables and Fruits are naturally gluten-free and can be incorporated into your diet easily. You can never go wrong with nature’s gift. Other than that, you can focus on meat, fish, poultry, eggs, or dairy products. These foods are not only healthy but also keep you full for a long time.
Read More:- Understanding Calciphylaxis Symptoms: What You Need to Know
✔ Substitute For Gluten
You can add rice, quinoa, corn, or gluten-free bread and pasta to your diet instead of traditional gluten products. These can help you relish the delicacies without any harm to your digestive system.
✔ Medications
Many individuals are prescribed medications or supplements to manage their celiac disease. This is after the damage has already been done to your body. Nutritional supplements are recommended for deficiencies, Dapson is prescribed to deal with gluten rash and corticosteroids for non-responsive celiac disease. The effects of these medications may be visible instantly or after some time of consumption, depending on the severity of the case.
Conclusion
Celiac disease can be managed with regular follow-up to the diet and eating habits. If this is not taken seriously then it can affect fertility, and cause cancer, seizures, or peripheral neuropathy. It is always advised to have routine check-ups and adopt a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet to stay fit.
