What is celiac disease?
It is an autoimmune disease whereby the immune system wrongly attacks the lining of the small bowel when gluten is consumed. This can cause malabsorption of nutrients such as iron, folate, calcium and fat.
Who should follow a gluten-free diet?
If you have been diagnosed with celiac disease or dermatitis herpetiformis you need to follow the gluten-free diet to manage symptoms and to allow healing of the lining of the small bowel.
What is a gluten-free diet?
A gluten-free diet is free of wheat, rye and barley ingredients and has not come in contact with gluten during food preparation or food service.
How is celiac disease monitored?
A person with celiac disease should follow up with their healthcare team every 3-6 months during the first year and every 6-12 months thereafter. It is important to receive dietary advice from a registered dietitian who is specialized in celiac disease to ensure you have all the knowledge and tools to follow a healthy gluten-free diet. Your doctor with order blood work and a bone density scan.
