Keywords

celiac disease, gluten-free diet, nutrition, quality of life

 

Authors

  1. Lee, Anne R. MSEd, RD

Abstract

Celiac disease is a common autoimmune disorder that requires a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment. Individuals who present with celiac disease vary from those who are asymptomatic to those with skin manifestation of dermatitis herpetiformis and to patients with severe wasting and malnutrition. Regardless of presentation, the only treatment is a strict gluten-free diet for life, which can be a major challenge in such a wheat-laden world, greatly affecting one's quality of life. Although the overall quality of life of the individuals with celiac disease improves with adherence to a gluten-free diet, the social and emotional impact of following the diet may remain an issue.