Gluten-Free Diet (GFD) Treatment
The gluten-free diet is the only known treatment for people with celiac disease. There are currently no medications or therapies available, therefore patients must adhere to a strict 100% GFD for life. Celiac disease can lead to serious health problems, including Lymphoma and autoimmune disorders, if left untreated or patients are not compliant with the dietary therapy.
What Is Gluten?
Gluten is a generic name for certain proteins found in wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. When people with celiac disease consume gluten, an immune response occurs which leads to the destruction of the villi in the small intestine. Even very small amounts of gluten can trigger the immune response. Therefore people with celiac disease must be very diligent in the management of their gluten-free diet.
The link below is a printable patient handout detailing the requirements of a gluten-free diet.