Treating Celiac Disease
A life-long, gluten-free diet is the only treatment for celiac disease. Fortunately, it is very effective. Symptoms usually go away within days of starting the diet. Healing of the villi may take months or years. Additional intake of gluten can damage the intestine, even if you have no symptoms. Delayed growth and tooth discoloration may be permanent. Nutritional supplements, given through a vein, may be needed if the intestinal damage is significant and does not heal. Since gluten is added to many foods, the diet can be complicated and often frustrating. Some patients find support groups helpful.
You must avoid all foods containing:
This includes most bread, pasta, cereal, and processed foods. Special gluten-free breads and pastas are available. They are made with potato, rice, soy, or bean flour. Patients who are lactose intolerant before their small intestine heals need to avoid milk products. A dietitian can assist you with meal planning.
Gluten is found in some unexpected foods and beverages. Carefully read all labels. Other foods with gluten include:
- Flavored coffee
- Beer
- Tuna in vegetable broth
- Packaged rice mixes
- Some frozen potatoes
- Creamed vegetables
- Commercially prepared vegetables, salads, and salad dressings
- Pudding
- Some ice cream
- Many other products
Ordering at restaurants can be especially challenging, since many foods on the menu may surprisingly contain gluten.
Patients with celiac disease should be tested for nutritional deficiencies. Bone density testing may also be needed. If vitamin or mineral deficiencies are found, the doctor may recommend taking supplements. Once the disease is under control with a gluten-free diet, however, this is often not necessary.