COELIAC DISEASE
Coeliac disease is the inflammation of the lining of the small intestine, causing a range of symptoms such as weight loss vomiting, diarrhoea to tiredness, lethargy and breathlessness. The condition is caused by gluten, a protein found in wheat , and similar proteins in rye, barley and oats. The symptoms of the disease can also be characteristic of other conditions and therefore proper medical advice should be sought.
The only treatment necessary to return the intestine to normal is a strict gluten free diet. Many fresh foods are naturally gluten free, however, if they are processed other gluten containing ceareals may be added during manufacture.
Further Information
Local Contacts
Anita Rowell
Coeliac U.K (South East Hampshire Group)
sehants@coeliac.co.uk
