Food is composed of complex molecules. Your body must break these molecules down into simpler nutrient forms to absorb and use them. Your digestive system produces enzymes and acids to aid this process. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. Celiac disease is an intestinal allergy to gluten; it results from an abnormal immune response that produces antibodies that attack gluten. Your small intestine is damaged in the process.
Background
Your small intestine is where nutrients are absorbed through finger-like protrusions called villi. Your immune system recognizes foreign substances and makes antibodies to destroy them under normal circumstances. However, in autoimmune conditions such as celiac disease, your body -- when it senses gluten -- produces antibodies that destroy harmless tissues and substances. After repeated attacks from your immune system, your villi become damaged, which causes malabsorption.
Malabsorption
Malabsorption makes it difficult to absorb nutrients from the food that you eat. If you have celiac disease, the primary goal is to prevent malabsorption, as it can lead to nutrient deficiencies. Deficiencies of vital nutrients such as B-12, folate and iron can cause anemia. This occurs when your body is unable to produce enough healthy red blood cells, which are responsible for transporting oxygen and nutrients to your cells.
Symptoms
Symptoms of celiac disease differ from person to person. Some individuals have no noticeable symptoms. You may experience bloating, abdominal pain, gas and discomfort after eating gluten-containing food or supplements. You also may experience constipation and diarrhea. Less common symptoms include weight loss and vomiting. If nutrient deficiencies are present, you may experience fatigue, low mood, irregular menstrual cycles and bone or joint pain.
Diagnosis
Celiac disease is often challenging to diagnose because symptoms are associated with other digestive conditions, according to the National Digestive Diseases and Information Clearinghouse. Blood tests can help determine if you have higher than normal auto-antibodies. If you have elevated auto-antibodies, your doctor may perform a biopsy of your small intestine to further confirm her suspicions. Your doctor will remove small pieces of your small intestines to check for signs of damage to your villi.
Treatment
There is no cure for celiac disease as of August 2011. Treatment consists of adhering to a gluten-free diet. This means you must avoid food and supplements that contain gluten, including pastas, cereals and many processed foods. Some gluten-free cakes, cookies, pancake mix and other items are available. You should generally focus on fresh fruits and vegetables and lean meats. Your health-care provider can provide you with a gluten-free checklist to make shopping easier.
