Celiac Awareness Month
Each year, May is Celiac Awareness month. One out of every 133 Americans has celiac disease (about three million), yet 95% of those with the disease remain undiagnosed, according to the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness. What is Celiac Disease? Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by consuming a protein called gluten, which is found in wheat, barley and rye. It causes the body to attack the small intestine and can cause serious damage if left untreated. Treatment for celiac disease is usually simply abiding to a strict, gluten-free diet. It sounds easier than is, sometimes avoiding gluten in your diet can be a challenge. Long term effects of untreated celiac disease is the susceptibility to other autoimmune disorders such as Type 1 diabetes or multiple sclerosis. Lactose intolerance and...