Celiac Disease - Slideshow

Normal Digestive System

The digestive process takes place in our GI tract. It begins at the mouth, where the food is bitten, chewed and swallowed. Food then reaches the stomach through the esophagus.Here the proteins are broken down. In the small intestine the villi absorbs the nutrients. The undigested food is then passed into the large intestine where it is converted into stool, and excreted through the anus.

What happens in Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an auto-immune digestive disorder affecting the small intestine. It often runs in families. Cause(s) are unknown. In case of celiac disease, the intestinal villi are damaged and the nutrients are not properly absorbed.

Gluten Intolerance & Symptoms

Celiac disease is a chronic condition characterized by gluten-intolerance.

Gluten Intolerance & Symptoms Gluten is a protein that is found in common foods-in grains like wheat, barley, rye; in processed foods, etc. Other symptoms include abdominal pain ,greasy and malodorous diarrhea / constipation,swollen abdomen,mouth ulcers, poor physical growth in children / weight gain,vomiting,muscle wasting,mood swings,fatigue,anemia.

Coping with Celiac Disease

Celiac disease has no treatment but symptoms can be eased through a gluten-free diet.

Avoid - Wheat, barley, rye, oats, pasta, pizza, fried chicken, French fries, cakes and pastries, cereals, noodles, and even certain types of alcohol and medicines. Safe foods -eggs, fish, fruits, lentils, maize, non-fat milk, poultry, and vegetables.

Celiac Disease Support Groups

If you have been diagnosed with celiac disease, join a support group that will help you to cope

Popular support groups have been listed here: Celiac Disease Foundation, Children's Digestive Health and Nutrition Foundation, Gluten Intolerance Group of North America, and Celiac Society of Delhi. If there is no easily accessible group in your area, start your own local support group.

Join Celiac Disease Support Group

Medindia is home to an active and informative support group on celiac disease. You can connect with other patients and also communicate real time with specialist doctors. Life with celiac disease is made easier here.