The only effective treatment option for celiac disease is a lifelong gluten-free diet.
Verywell / Theresa Chiechi
What Is Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that impacts approximately 1 in every 100 people.
Verywell / Theresa Chiechi
The condition can develop at any age.
Genetics and stress are also thought to play a role in the development of the condition.
This attack can cause damage to the small fingerlike structures within the small intestine called thevilli.
Your villi play an important role in nutrient absorption.
This can lead to malnourishment regardless of how much you eat.
Those who have celiac disease must stay on a gluten-free diet for life.
If they stay the course on a gluten-free diet, symptoms often disappear entirely.
When this happens, the villi will be able to work again as normal.
This includes foods, beverages, somemedications, and even products likecosmetics.
Gluten is a protein that acts like glue to help foods hold their shape.
Look for products that are independently tested and certified gluten-free.
Wheat
Those on a gluten-free diet for celiac disease should avoid foods that contain wheat.
Wheat can be found in foods like:
Barley
Barley is another grain that contains gluten.
Those following a gluten-free diet for celiac disease should avoid foods and drinks that contain barley.
These include:
Rye
Rye is another grain that contains gluten.
It also contains gluten, so those with celiac disease should avoid it.
There are even 100% gluten-free restaurants in some areas.
Consider looking at the menu online or calling the restaurant to discuss your options before making a reservation.
check that they understand what this means.
If they don’t, explain clearly the foods you might’t eat.
see to it to emphasize that gluten can even be found in ingredients like soy sauce.
It is always best to ask.
If in doubt, ask.
Most restaurants are happy to make accommodations to meet your needs.
And consider bringing backup gluten-free foods with you in case there aren’t gluten-free menu options available.
Gluten is found in the grains wheat, barley, rye, and triticale.
If you have any questions about adopting a gluten-free diet, don’t hesitate to ask for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
All fresh fruits and vegetables, including bananas, are naturally gluten free.
Potatoes are naturally gluten-free.
However, when eating out it is important to ask if potatoes on the menu are prepared gluten-free.
Yes, most types.
Many forms of alcohol are safe for those with celiac disease.
During the processing of distilled spirits, proteins are removed from the starting materials.
To be safe, be sure to check the labels of anything you are unsure of.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Celiac disease.
2018;16(6):823-836.e2.
doi:10.1016/j.cgh.2017.06.037
Celiac Disease Foundation.What is celiac disease?
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Treatment for celiac disease.
Celiac Disease Foundation.What is gluten?
Celiac Disease Foundation.Gluten-free foods.
Celiac Disease Foundation.Dining and social eating.
National Celiac Association.Frequently asked questions about alcohol on the gluten-free diet.
