Grocery store shelves are now stocked with gluten-free options
and restaurants are now serving up gluten-free dishes, but
Celiac disease still remains a mystery to many. Celiac disease
is an autoimmune disorder that interferes with the body’s
ability to absorb nutrients. For those with Celiac disease,
consuming gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye,
damages the small intestine. Celiac disease is a hereditary
condition, but an estimated 95 percent of the 3 million
Americans living with this condition are unaware that they have
it. Left untreated, Celiac disease is associated with an
increased risk of small bowel cancer. Symptoms of Celiac disease
can vary from person to person, and can occur in the digestive
system or other parts of the body. Symptoms can include
intermittent diarrhea, abdominal pain or bloating. Some symptoms
may be less obvious and can include irritability or depression,
anemia, joint pain, mouth sores, or dental and bone disorders.
If you have signs or symptoms that become worris