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Celiac.com - Celiac Disease & Gluten-Free Diet Support Since 1995
What is Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease (aka coeliac disease) is a genetic autoimmune disorder where ingesting gluten (a protein in wheat, barley, and rye) triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine's lining. This damage leads to inflammation and atrophy of the villi, tiny finger-like projections in the intestine responsible for nutrient absorption. As a result, individuals with celiac disease may experience symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, fatigue, and malnutrition. Over time, untreated celiac disease can lead to more severe health problems, including anemia, osteoporosis, weight loss, and increased risk of certain cancers. A strict gluten-free diet is the only effective treatment. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease, not a wheat allergy. It's also different from non-celiac gluten sensitivity, gluten intolerance, or sensitivity to gluten.
My Long Journey to Celiac Disease Diagnosis
Like many people, I spent a lot of years, a lot of dollars, and endured many tests and misdiagnoses, before doctors finally discovered that I had celiac disease (also known as coeliac disease or celiac sprue), and needed to eliminate gluten and all gluten-containing ingredients from my diet. Gluten is a protein found in the three main gluten-containing grains: wheat, rye, and barley; and is often hidden in processed foods, and things like soy sauce and beer...[READ MORE about my long and winding road to a celiac disease diagnosis and recovery.]
Gluten-Free Diet
To treat my celiac disease I had to go on a gluten-free diet for life. That meant learning to read food labels to avoid gluten ingredients, and eating a diet of mostly naturally gluten-free foods like meats, fruits, nuts, vegetables, and packaged foods only if they are certified gluten-free or labeled gluten-free, for example gluten-free breads made using gluten-free grains.
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Recent Activity
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- Scott Adams replied to wellthatsfun's topic in Coping with Celiac Disease1
still struggling with cravings
I totally get this. It's absolutely a grieving process, and it's okay to feel gutted about the loss of those simple joys, especially at 18. Your feelings are completely valid—it's not about being ungrateful for your amazing boyfriend, it's about mourning the life you thought you'd have. That "tortured by the smell" feeling is so real. It does get easier, ... -
- Scott Adams replied to Colleen H's topic in Gluten-Free Foods, Products, Shopping & Medications1
Oh my goodness medication causing pain !!!!
Many of us with celiac find that the fillers in medications can cause a reaction, and sometimes our bodies just process things weirdly. That "rebound muscle pain" and "burning feet" you described sounds awful and is a huge red flag. It's frustrating enough managing the diet without medication causing setbacks. So sorry you're dealing with this, but you're... -
- Scott Adams replied to Me,Sue's topic in Post Diagnosis, Recovery & Treatment of Celiac Disease1
Knowing what to do when feeling unwell.
It's so tough when you're doing everything right and still get hit with it. I'm glad you're figuring out a system that works for you—the peppermint tea and rehydration powders are smart moves. It sounds like you've really learned to listen to your body, and that's half the battle. Sticking to simple, safe food at home is the best way to build yourself back u... -
- Scott Adams replied to Jillian83's topic in Coping with Celiac Disease4
Celiac and dermatitis herpetiformis has taken Me from Me
I am so sorry you're going through this. It's bad enough to fight for a diagnosis and manage this disease, but to have your partner use it as a weapon against you is truly devastating. What you're describing isn't just a lack of support; it's abuse, full stop. Controlling your food and money is cruel, and his pleasure in your misery is chilling. Please hear... -
- Colleen H replied to Colleen H's topic in Gluten-Free Foods, Products, Shopping & Medications13
Ibuprofen
Thank you.. Christina My anxiety is through the roof. I think it was from eggs. I really don't know because my eyes feel sore. Like I'm allergic to them. I was defient in B12. My heart is pounding and it won't stop. Not sure what to do. I don't have much support other than this forum. Colleen
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