Coeliac disease, is an inflammatory condition caused by the protein gluten, which is found in wheat, and similar proteins in rye, barley and oats. In people with the disease, the lining of the small intestine is damaged, this reduces the ability of the gut to absorb adequate nutrients from food.

The normal finger-like projections (villi) which increase the absorptive surface area of the small intestine are partially or totally flattened This malabsorption leads to a deficiency of many nutrients, including vitamins and minerals and often causes diarrhoea and malnutrition.

In the UK, coeliac disease affects about 1 in 1,000 people. It is also known that the condition runs in families, suggesting a genetic link.Causes

Although around one in a 1000 people are known to have coeliac disease, it's believed that as many as one in 300 people may actually be affected, but many who suffer some damage to the intestinal lining, never develop symptoms.

Severe stress, physical injury, infection, childbirth or surgery may lead to symptoms developing.

 t tends to run in families.

It is also more common for those with type 1 diabetes (insulin dependent diabetes) and autoimmune thyroid disease.

Treatment

Coeliac disease can be kept under control and further problems prevented, by completely eliminating gluten and related proteins from the diet.

Gluten as a protein is not essential to the diet and its amino acid components can be replaced by other foods.

Improvements begin within days of starting the diet. The small intestine is usually completely healed in 3 to 6 months, individuals start to regain lost weight and are able to lead a normal and healthy life.

It is advisable to see a dietician for guidance on foods that are gluten-free (fruit, vegetables, fresh meat, fish, cheese, eggs, and milk). Also those that contain wheat, barley, and rye, these should be avoided and replaced with rice, corn, and possibly oats.

The availability of gluten-free foods is now much better than in the past. Recipe books and gluten-free foods, some of which are available on prescription, are now readily available. 

Initially, supplements of vitamins and minerals may need to be taken.

Since coeliac disease sometimes runs in families, relatives of sufferers may be screened for the disease by having a blood test to check for antibodies.