CELIAC DISEASE: SYMPTOMS, TESTING, HEALING & RESOURCES

Celiac Disease (CD) affects one out of every 133 people (up to 1% of the population, by some estimates) and is the most common food allergy in the world. Even if you aren't a celiac yourself, someone you know probably is.

Celiac Disease is triggered by the protein components of wheat, rye, barley, and oats. Once in the gut, these proteins cause an autoimmune response in which the immune cells of the body attack the lining of the small intestine. Unlike other "allergies," CD can lead to severe illness, including malabsorption, growth retardation, and cancer if left untreated. The only treatment for CD is a life-long gluten-free diet."

The average length of time it takes for someone with no symptoms to be diagnosed with CD is eleven years. During that time, a person’s risk of developing related health problems increases dramatically. So it’s important that we get the word out about Celiac Disease.

The more people know about CD, the easier it will be for other Celiacs to get diagnosed, and for new businesses to recognize the demand for gluten-free and celiac-friendly products.

It is our mission at gfplanet to be a resource for anyone who has questions about any aspect of Celiac Disease. Whether you’re looking for information on how to get tested for CD, suggestions on how to proceed after a diagnosis, or just looking for a gluten-free recipe for a Celiac friend who’s coming to dinner, we hope you’ll find helpful and easily understandable information.

Here’s to your health.