Treatment of celiac disease gluten-free diet

Gastroenterology and Hepatology Specialist Dr. Emin Yekta Kişioğlu said that the treatment for Celiac disease, one of the most common genetic diseases, is “a lifelong gluten-free diet” and gave the following information about the disease:

Celiac disease is an excessive immune reaction that develops in the small intestine against a type of protein called ‘gluten’ found in wheat, barley, rye and oats. As a result of this reaction, changes occur in the small intestine tissue and nutrients cannot be absorbed sufficiently. It is not yet known what causes this disease and why some people have more immune reactions. The fact that it is common in Northern Europe shows that genetic factors are important. There is a relationship between the risk of developing celiac disease and genes that affect the immune system. The disease can occur at any age and there is no gender difference,

SYMPTOMS OF CELIAC DISEASE MAY VARY

The symptoms of celiac disease vary. In mild cases, there may be no complaints, and diagnosis is made by suspecting some blood tests (iron deficiency). In more advanced cases, there are symptoms such as diarrhea, weight loss, gas, and osteoporosis. Celiac disease is more common in people with diabetes, hypothyroidism, joint pain, depression, and some skin and liver disorders.

Since the cause of the disease is unknown, it is not possible to prevent it. However, in cases that are caught before symptoms appear, complaints can be prevented with nutritional recommendations. The disease should be investigated in first-degree relatives of celiac patients. In patients suspected from symptoms or blood tests, some antibody tests and small intestine biopsy provide diagnosis. Antibody tests are found in more than 90% of celiac patients and are very rare in those without celiac. Small intestine biopsy is taken from the small intestine with endoscopy. Since this procedure is performed with sedation, patients do not experience any discomfort.

GLUTEN-FREE DIET IS SUFFICIENT IN THE TREATMENT OF CELIAC DISEASE

There is no need to use medication for the treatment of celiac disease. Diet is sufficient for treatment. There is no need for any medication. Celiac patients must follow a very strict and absolutely gluten-free diet. This diet should be lifelong. No food containing wheat, barley, rye or oat flour should be consumed. Instead, bread, pastry etc. can be made with corn, potato, rice or soy flour. In addition, many ready-made foods may contain gluten-containing additives, and patients should be careful about these.