Gluten
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Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. It gives dough its elasticity and helps bread to rise. However, some people are intolerant to gluten, a condition known as celiac disease. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that damages the small intestine when gluten is consumed. Symptoms of celiac disease can include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue.
What is Gluten?
Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. It is made up of two proteins, gliadin and glutenin. These proteins give dough its elasticity and help bread to rise. Gluten is also found in some other foods, such as oats, malt, and soy sauce.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that damages the small intestine when gluten is consumed. The immune system attacks the lining of the small intestine, causing inflammation and damage. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue. Celiac disease can also cause long-term complications, such as osteoporosis, anemia, and infertility.
Gluten Intolerance
Gluten intolerance is a condition in which people experience symptoms similar to celiac disease after eating gluten. However, unlike celiac disease, gluten intolerance does not damage the small intestine. Symptoms of gluten intolerance can include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and fatigue.
How is Celiac Disease Diagnosed?
Celiac disease is diagnosed through a blood test and a biopsy of the small intestine. The blood test looks for antibodies that are produced by the immune system in response to gluten. The biopsy is used to examine the small intestine for damage.
How is Celiac Disease Treated?
The only treatment for celiac disease is a gluten-free diet. This means avoiding all foods that contain gluten, including wheat, rye, and barley. Oats are naturally gluten-free, but they can be contaminated with gluten during harvesting and processing. Therefore, it is important to choose oats that are labeled gluten-free.
