Celiac Disease

What Is Celiac?

• When people with celiac disease eat gluten (a protein found in wheat, rye and barley), their body mounts an immune response that attacks the small intestine. These attacks lead to damage on the villi and nutrients cannot be absorbed properly into the body.

Untitled Slide

WHICH CHROMOSOME IS AFFECTED?

• Chromosome 6 is affected when you get Celiac disease

Untitled Slide

Long Term Health Affects

• Iron deficiency anemia
• Early onset osteoporosis or osteopenia
• Infertility and miscarriage
• Lactose intolerance (milk)
• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
• Central and peripheral nervous system disorders
• Pancreatic (pancreas) insufficiency
• Gall bladder disfunction

Screenings and Diagnosis

• A simple blood test is available to screen for celiac disease. People with celiac disease who eat gluten have higher than normal levels of certain antibodies in their blood.

Treatment

• Currently, the only treatment for celiac disease is lifelong adherence to a strict gluten-free diet. People living gluten-free must avoid foods with wheat, rye and barley, such as bread and beer.

Annual Follow Up

• Once diagnosed, initial follow-up with your physician and a registered dietitian is necessary to monitor nutrition

CELIAC AWARENESS

SOURCES

• Celiac.org
• Beyondceliac.org
• Medlineplus.gov
• Medscape.com