What is Celiac Disease?
Before my diagnosis, I had no idea what celiac disease was. So whether you’re newly diagnosed, know someone with celiac disease or just are curious let me tell you what it is 👇
According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disease that occurs in genetically predisposed people where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. It is estimated to affect 1 in 100 people worldwide, but only about 30% are properly diagnosed.
Celiac runs in families. If you have a first degree relative with it (this includes parent, child, and siblings) you have a 1 in 10 risk of developing celiac.
When left untreated, it can lead to other serious health problems.
#celiacdisease #CeliacAwareness #chronicillness #glutenfree #celiacsafe
Celiac disease is a complex autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten ingestion in genetically predisposed individuals. Beyond the basic definition, understanding the symptoms and management of celiac disease can greatly improve quality of life for those affected. Symptoms often vary widely and can include digestive issues like diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain, as well as non-digestive symptoms such as fatigue, anemia, and skin rashes. Since celiac disease runs in families, it’s essential for first-degree relatives of diagnosed patients to consider screening, even if symptoms are mild or absent. Early diagnosis helps prevent complications such as malnutrition, osteoporosis, infertility, and an increased risk of certain intestinal cancers. A strict lifelong gluten-free diet remains the only effective treatment for celiac disease. This means eliminating all wheat, barley, and rye products. Fortunately, awareness has been growing, leading to more gluten-free options available in grocery stores and restaurants, helping those with celiac disease maintain a safe and nutritious diet. Living with celiac disease also means being vigilant about cross-contamination and label reading. Support groups and communities focused on #celiacdisease, #CeliacAwareness, #glutenfree, and #celiacsafe are valuable resources for sharing advice and emotional support. Managing celiac disease is a journey that involves education, lifestyle changes, and sometimes working closely with healthcare providers, including dietitians and gastroenterologists. Staying informed empowers patients to live healthy and active lives despite their diagnosis.
