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Celiac disease is an abnormal immune system reaction to gluten, a protein found in grains like wheat, barley, rye, and triticale (a wheat-rye cross). It damages the small intestine so that it can't do a good job of absorbing nutrients from your food.
If you have celiac disease, you need to avoid foods that contain gluten.
Celiac disease is also known as celiac sprue, gluten-sensitive enteropathy, and non-tropical sprue.
Current as of: October 19, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review BoardAll Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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