Does Celiac Disease Cause Inflammation?
January 10, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. In individuals with celiac disease, the ingestion of gluten causes an immune system response that leads to inflammation and damage to the lining of the small intestine.
When a person with celiac disease consumes gluten, their immune system reacts by attacking the small intestine. This immune response leads to inflammation, which damages the villi—small finger-like projections in the lining of the small intestine responsible for nutrient absorption. As a result, the intestine’s ability to absorb nutrients from food is impaired, leading to various symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and nutritional deficiencies.
The inflammation caused by the immune response in celiac disease can also extend beyond the intestine, affecting other parts of the body and potentially leading to complications if the condition remains untreated. Therefore, managing celiac disease involves adhering to a strict gluten-free diet to alleviate symptoms, promote healing of the intestine, and prevent inflammation-related complications.