Can you imagine if your own body's immune system started attacking your own small intestine because of the food you ate? Celiac Disease is actually such a condition. This is a problem with the immune system, medically we call it an 'autoimmune disorder'. Many people suffer from this condition. The cause of this is the protein called 'gluten' found in grains like wheat, rye, and barley. So let's see what can be done to treat this condition.
The only cure for this: a gluten-free diet!
Many people think that there is a cure for celiac disease. But the truth is, there is no cure yet for celiac disease . The only and best way to prevent the health problems caused by this disease is to completely eliminate gluten from your diet.
Simply put, when you stop eating gluten, the damage to your small intestine stops and it slowly begins to heal. This also helps prevent future problems and inflammation.
So you have to stop eating almost all foods made with wheat flour. You also can't eat the grains below, because they all contain gluten.
| Grains that should definitely be avoided because they contain gluten | |
|---|---|
| Rye | Barley |
| Durum | Farina |
| Graham flour | Malt |
| Semolina | Wheat and everything related to wheat flour |
Can you eat oats?
This is a problem for many people. Some celiac patients have no problem eating oats. But you shouldn't make this decision on your own. Talk to your doctor and ask him if it's okay for you to eat oats. Your doctor will often recommend that you only choose oats that are labeled "gluten-free." This is because regular oats can be cross-contaminated with things like wheat when they are packaged.
What foods may contain hidden gluten?
As a person with celiac disease, you need to be very careful about the processed foods you buy from the market. Wheat flour is used as an ingredient in many foods that we don't even think about. So when you buy something from the store, make it a habit to read the label carefully.
| Foods and products that may contain hidden gluten |
|---|
| Canned soups |
| Salad dressings |
| Types of ice cream |
| Some chocolates and candy bars |
| Types of instant coffee |
| Prepared meats, sausages, meatballs (Luncheon meats) |
| Some sauces (e.g. ketchup, soy sauce) |
| Types of Yogurt |
| Pasta and noodles (made from wheat) |
Where else is gluten found besides food and drink?
Yes, you're right. Gluten isn't just found in food. It can also be found in other products you use every day.
- Medications: Some of the pills, capsules, vitamins, and supplements you take may use wheat starch as a binding agent.
- Other products: Some cosmetic products such as toothpastes, mouthwashes, and lipsticks may also contain gluten.
Therefore, it is very important to meet with a dietitian to talk about this. He or she will explain to you what gluten-free foods are, how to get the nutrition you need, and how to read food labels correctly.
Will I need extra vitamins?
When the intestines are damaged by celiac disease, the body cannot properly absorb the nutrients in the foods we eat. This can lead to certain nutritional deficiencies. The most common deficiencies are:
- Iron
- Calcium
- Zinc
- Vitamin D
- Niacin
- Magnesium
- Folate
The good news is that once you start a gluten-free diet, your gut will start to absorb these nutrients again as it heals. However, it's best to consult your doctor and ask if you need to take a gluten-free multivitamin or other supplement.
How long will it take for me to feel better?
Once you start following a gluten-free diet, your symptoms will start to improve within a few weeks. Many people start to feel a big difference and feel better within just a few days.
But remember, even if you feel better quickly, it can take months, or even years, for your gut to fully heal. That's why it's very important to continue this diet.
Young children with celiac disease, in particular, respond remarkably well to this diet. Not only do their symptoms such as stomach aches and flatulence disappear, but their previously restless behavior patterns also improve. Their growth returns to normal and they gain weight quickly.
Take-Home Message
- Celiac disease is an immune system problem caused by a protein called gluten.
- There is no medicine to take for this. The only treatment is to follow a gluten-free diet for life .
- Grains like wheat, rye, and barley should be completely avoided.
- Always read the labels of store-bought prepared foods carefully. Be aware of hidden gluten.
- Be sure to talk to your doctor to find out if you need additional vitamins.
- This diet may seem a little difficult at first, but after a while you'll get used to it. You'll start to feel better soon!
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