Welcome to the Moncton Chapter of Celiac Canada, where we share delicious Celiac recipes and promote gluten free cooking for everyone. Join us as we explore healthy gluten free meals that cater to your dietary needs.
Understanding Celiac Disease
What is Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder characterized by an immune response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and their cross-grains. When individuals with celiac disease consume gluten, it triggers an immune response in the small intestine that damages the lining, impairing the absorption of essential nutrients such as protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. While there is no cure for celiac disease, following a strict, life-long gluten free diet is crucial for managing symptoms, promoting healing of the small intestines, and preventing complications.
Symptoms
The common celiac disease symptoms include:
- Chronic diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and bloating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Weight loss
Less common symptoms can include:
- Anemia (due to lack of iron absorption)
- Osteoporosis
- Oral ulcers
- Infertility
- Liver enzyme abnormalities
- Neurological problems (which may present as numbness/tingling in the hands and feet, headaches, and brain fog)
- Joint pain
- Itchy, blistering skin rash known as dermatitis herpetiformis
In addition to the typical digestive symptoms, children may experience unique symptoms such as:
- Failure to thrive in infants
- Short stature
- Swollen belly
- Pale, foul-smelling stool
- Damage to dental enamel
- Delayed puberty
- Anemia
- Irritability
- Neurological issues including ADHD, learning disabilities, headaches, lack of muscle coordination, and seizures.
Some individuals with celiac disease may not exhibit any symptoms, which can lead to delays in diagnosis. Celiac disease is more prevalent among those with other autoimmune disorders like thyroid disease and type 1 diabetes. There is also a genetic predisposition, making it more common in individuals with first or second-degree relatives who have celiac disease. Consequently, celiac disease diagnosis is particularly important for those in high-risk categories.
Diagnosis
Celiac disease diagnosis can now be efficiently conducted through blood tests, specifically the IgA-tissue transglutaminase (TTG) antibody test. Patients must maintain a gluten diet to ensure accurate results.
A definitive diagnosis is obtained via a small bowel biopsy, performed through an endoscopy by a gastroenterologist. Like the blood test, this procedure requires the individual to be on a gluten diet for precise results.
Dermatitis herpetiformis is confirmed through a skin biopsy.
Treatment
The treatment for celiac disease involves adhering to a strict, life-long gluten free diet. Awareness of potential cross-contamination is crucial, as even trace amounts of gluten can cause significant damage. Gluten can also be hidden in unexpected products. Thanks to recent food labeling laws, it's become much simpler to identify safe food products. For more information on living with celiac disease, visit Celiac Canada’s website (www.celiac.ca).
