What does Celiac disease damage?
Celiac disease is a severe autoimmune disease that occurs in genetically susceptible people when gluten consumption causes damage to the small intestine. What does Celiac disease damage? It is estimated that one in every 100 people worldwide is affected, but only about 30% are properly diagnosed. When celiac disease sufferers consume gluten, a protein…
Celiac disease is a severe autoimmune disease that occurs in genetically susceptible people when gluten consumption causes damage to the small intestine.
What does Celiac disease damage?
It is estimated that one in every 100 people worldwide is affected, but only about 30% are properly diagnosed. When celiac disease sufferers consume gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, their bodies mount an immune response that attacks the small intestine.
These attacks cause damage to the villi, which are small fingerlike projections that line the small intestine and aid in nutrient absorption. Nutrients cannot be absorbed properly into the body when the villi are destroyed.
Celiac disease is mostly inherited, which means it runs in families. People who have a first-degree relative with celiac disease, whether a parent, child, or sibling, have a one in ten chance of developing celiac disease. Celiac disease can occur at any age after consuming gluten. Celiac disease, if left untreated, can lead to other serious health problems.
