Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes harsh bodily reactions to gluten---a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. A strict, gluten-free diet, the primary treatment for celiac disease, stimulates healing in the digestive tract and helps to prevent further damage. Though a gluten-free diet does not cure celiac disease, it usually alleviates symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, fatigue and unintentional weight loss. For best results, seek guidance from a qualified health-care professional.
Function
A celiac healing diet eliminates all gluten-containing foods from your diet, which allows your body to begin the healing process and prevents further intestinal damage caused by the disease. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, a gluten-free diet usually alleviates all symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation and unexplained weight loss. An appropriate diet should also support your overall wellness by supplying a variety of nutrients and healthy gluten-free foods.
Time Frame
You may experience improved symptoms as soon as you begin a gluten-free diet. Most people feel better within days, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. While children's small intestines usually heal within three to six months, adults may require additional time. In rare cases, people experience no improvements after starting a gluten-free diet. This usually occurs because of poor adherence to the diet or severe, irreparable damage in the intestines.
Foods to Eliminate
Gluten is present in a broad variety of foods. Since the most important aspect of the celiac disease healing diet is eliminating gluten, the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center suggests familiarizing yourself with gluten-containing foods and ingredients. They include barley, barley malt, bran, bread flour, cereal, edible starch, farina, filler, germ, graham flour, malt, oats, oat bran, oat fiber, rye, vital gluten and any ingredient whose name contains the word "wheat." Most commercially prepared breads, cereals, crackers, cookies and other baked goods contain gluten. Less obvious foods that often contain gluten include bouillon, beer, soy sauce, seitan and taco seasoning.
Foods to Enjoy
Consume a variety of nutritious, gluten-free foods, including foods that replace nutrients normally reaped from gluten-containing foods. Gluten-free rice bread, corn and rice-based cereals, brown rice, baked potatoes and sweet potatoes provide valuable alternatives to gluten-containing starches. Fresh, natural foods, free of additives, are your best bet, according to the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center. All fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, nuts, oils and gluten-free grains are naturally gluten-free.
Suggestions
In addition to following a strict gluten-free diet, certain foods may provide additional healing benefits. Natural wellness expert Andrew Weil, M.D., suggests probiotics, which can help to restore and maintain digestive health. Valuable sources of probiotics include gluten-free yogurt with live active cultures, kefir, fermented cabbage and sauerkraut. Dietary supplements are also available. Reading food labels carefully, shopping at your local health food store and learning to cook and bake gluten-free dishes can help ease the process of the healing diet and enhance enjoyment. For best results, stay in close contact with your doctor or nutritionist for guidance and support.
