Rose Mary
Celiac Disease is an auto-immune disease. It was once thought to be rare in the USA, but on-going research estimates the prevalence at nearly one million Americans. It has a genetic component but there are other factors involved. SYMPTOMS: Diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, weight loss or gain, mineral deficiencies (usually iron and B12,malabsorption,a distinctive rash and excessive fatigue. Currently there is only one way to treat CD (also called Gluten Intolerance, malabsorption syndrome, failure to thrive, Dermatitis Herpetiformis, non-tropical sprue, celiac sprue, is with lifelong avoidance of wheat, rye, malt and most processed foods. The part of the grain that causes the problem is called gluten or prolamine. The diet is very complex (in the beginning) but there are support groups who will help. Please reply if your symptoms suggest you might have this disease. If you have been diagnosed with Celiac Disease, you should be aware that the diet has been updated for the USA. The diet is being used successfully for autism and ADD. Information is available on the Internet, but make sure the source is reliable.