Coeliac disease: Difference between revisions

 

Presently, the only effective treatment is a life-long [[gluten-free diet]].<ref>{{cite journal | author = Kupper C | title = Dietary guidelines and implementation for celiac disease | journal = Gastroenterology | volume = 128 | issue = 4 Suppl 1 | pages = S121-7 | year = 2005 | pmid=15825119}}</ref> No medication exists that will prevent damage, or prevent the body from attacking the gut when gluten is present. Strict adherence to the diet allows the intestines to heal, leading to resolution of all symptoms in the vast majority of cases and, depending on how soon the diet is begun, can also eliminate the heightened risk of osteoporosis and intestinal cancer.<ref>{{cite journal | author = Treem W | title = Emerging concepts in celiac disease | journal = Curr Opin Pediatr | volume = 16 | issue = 5 | pages = 552-9 | year = 2004| pmid=15367850}}</ref> [[Dietician]] input is generally requested to ensure the patient is aware which foods contain gluten, which foods are safe, and how to have a balanced diet despite the limitations. In many countries gluten-free products are available on [[Medical prescription|prescription]] and may be reimbursed by [[health insurance]] plans. More manufacturers are producing gluten-free products, some of which are almost indistinguishable from their gluten-containing counterparts.

 

The diet can be cumbersome; failure to comply with the diet may cause relapse. Many food products contain traces of gluten even if apparently wheat-free. Gluten-free products are usually more expensive and harder to find than common wheat-containing foods.