Celiac disease is a disease that affects the small intestine causing atrophy of intestinal villi, which interferes with the absorption of nutrients such as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. The disease is due to an inappropriate immune response to gluten (protein mixture present in cereals) wheat, barley, rye and, to a lesser extent, oats, can cause diarrhea, deficiency of vitamins and minerals , anemia and osteoporosis. Celiac disease affects people of all ages.
Currently, the only treatment available to celiac disease is to follow a strict gluten-free diet throughout their lives, a fact that presents great difficulties in practice, especially if we consider that the gluten, is also present in many foods, is also in additives and preservatives.
Some facts about celiac disease:
- Approximately 1% of the population is affected by this disease (2% of the population> 55 years).
- Only 10-20% of diagnosed celiacs.
- More than 20 million people suffer from celiac disease.
- Currently, the only treatment is a gluten-free diet.