Facts about Celiac Disease
Living with an Invisible Disease
An invisible disease, with lots to expose.
Here are a few facts about Celiac Disease (CD) and getting started on your Gluten Free Journey.
Autoimmune Disorder
CD is an autoimmune disease, with the ingestion of gluten being a trigger for attacks to the small intestine called villi. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye and other derivatives.
Get Diagnosed First
It is important to get tested before going gluten free or tests may provide a false negative, or worse – you have to participate in the gluten challenge. The golden standard for diagnosis is a blood test, followed by an endoscopy, with up to 6 weeks of gluten consumption in advance. Genetic tests are available, but having the genes does not confirm active CD.
Everyone is Unique
Symptoms vary from person to person. Commonly diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and discomfort are present, but not always experienced. Others may experience fatigue, brain fog, migraines, and more. The impacts of gluten can go unnoticed until gluten is removed from diet.
Age Isn't a Factor
CD can occur to anyone at any age. Some may test negative at one point in their life, but at a later date test positive for CD. There is no way to avoid or prevent, and something can trigger CD at any time.
There is NO Cure
Presently, researchers across the globe are working to help minimize the damage from gluten exposure and potentially reverse the disease. A gluten free diet is the only way to prevent triggers and further villi damage. No pills, vaccines or enzyme supplements are available for treatment/cure.
Undiagnosed? Not Uncommon
Over 80% of the people with CD are not diagnosed. An estimated 1 in 133 people in the United States have CD. This number greatly increase globally due to lack of awareness, medical research & funding. Support your local Celiac awareness & research organizations to help!
Goodbye Cheat Days
Not following a gluten free diet greatly increase the risk of additional autoimmune conditions and health risks. Increased risks of cancers, MS, thyroid disorders, Type 1 Diabetes, to name a few. Follow a strict gluten free diet and these risks are equal to those without CD.
Go Gluten Free!
Adjusting to a gluten free diet is a life change, and it will be difficult. Educate yourself, learn how to find the hidden gluten, and practice proper wellness and self care, and be on your way to enjoying a long, healthy Gluten Free Journey.
