Gluten and Celiac Disease
Updated: February 24, 2025
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Summary
This video provides an insightful explanation of gluten, its presence in common food items, and its association with celiac disease. It delves into the hereditary aspect of the disease and details the symptoms such as immune system attacks on the small intestine. The video also emphasizes the importance of diagnosis through blood tests and biopsies, as well as the treatment of celiac disease through a gluten-free diet. Additionally, it mentions that while a gluten-free diet helps most individuals, some may need supplementary treatments.
What is Gluten?
Explanation of what gluten is and where it can be found in common food products like pastas, cereal, and bread.
Celiac Disease Overview
Introduction to celiac disease and how it can make some people feel sick when consuming gluten, with a focus on its hereditary nature.
Symptoms and Effects of Celiac Disease
Description of the symptoms and effects of celiac disease, including the immune system's attack on the small intestine, flattened intestinal lining, and other health problems like bone or joint pain and dermatitis herpetiformis.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Information about the diagnosis of celiac disease through blood tests and biopsies, and the treatment through a gluten-free diet, which can alleviate symptoms and heal damage to the small intestine.
Treatment Challenges
Explanation that while a gluten-free diet works for most people with celiac disease, some individuals may require additional treatments beyond diet alone.
FAQ
Q: What is gluten?
A: Gluten is a group of proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye that gives dough its elasticity and helps it rise.
Q: Where can gluten be found in common food products?
A: Gluten can be found in products like pasta, cereal, bread, baked goods, and many processed foods that contain wheat, barley, or rye ingredients.
Q: What is celiac disease?
A: Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where consuming gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine, leading to various symptoms and health problems.
Q: What are the symptoms and effects of celiac disease?
A: Symptoms of celiac disease can include gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and malabsorption of nutrients due to the damage in the small intestine.
Q: How is celiac disease diagnosed?
A: Celiac disease can be diagnosed through blood tests that measure antibodies related to the condition and confirmed through a biopsy of the small intestine to assess damage.
Q: What is the treatment for celiac disease?
A: The primary treatment for celiac disease is following a strict gluten-free diet, which helps alleviate symptoms and allows the small intestine to heal. Some cases may require additional medical treatments.
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