The Natural Treatment of Coeliac Disease

Coeliac disease (or celiac disease) is a digestive disease in which the small intestine becomes damaged and prevents the absorption of nutrients from food. Coeliac disease sufferers will experience an abnormal intolerance or reaction to gluten, wheat, rye and barley. nnWhen a coeliac disease sufferer consumes food, vitamins or products containing gluten, their immune system will respond to this by damaging the small protrusions located on the outer surface of the small intestine called villi. When these villi become damaged, regardless of how much food the sufferer consumes, they will become malnourished. nnSymptoms of celiacs disease will vary and can occur in either the digestive system or within other parts of the body. The symptoms can also cause great discomfort. Digestive symptoms may include abdominal bloating and pain, chronic diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, foul-smelling or fatty stool and weight loss. Due to lack of nutrients absorbed into the blood stream you may also experience higher levels of irritability. Symptoms which affect other areas of the body can include iron-deficiency or anaemia, fatigue, bone or joint pain, arthritis, bone loss or osteoporosis, depression or anxiety, tingling sensations or numbing of the hands and feet, missed menstrual periods, ulcers or sores inside the mouth from a lack of vitamin C absorption. Long-term implications can include malnutrition which can lead to anaemia, osteoporosis, miscarriage, liver diseases, and cancers of the intestine.nnThe most effective way to treat coeliac disease is by undertaking a gluten-free diet which for many, can mean a drastic diet and lifestyle change. The sufferer will be required to eliminate many 'staple' foods such as bread, cereal, pasta and processed foods which can be difficult to give up. Even the smallest portion of gluten will cause damage to the small intestine therefore it is vital that it is completely eliminated. Many foods containing gluten are actually unbeneficial for a non sufferer of coeliac disease and it certainly does not mean you cannot maintain an enjoyable and healthy diet. Following a gluten free diet will relieve symptoms, heal existing intestinal damage, and prevent further damage. The cure is of course a gradual process but one that will eliminate discomfort, increase your feeling of well being and ultimately, keep you healthy.nnMegavista-Health.com is an independent website giving cutting-edge information on positive, holistic health and nutrition. For further information on how to cure coeliac disease please go to Megavista-health.