{"id":11105,"date":"2025-09-28T14:20:29","date_gmt":"2025-09-28T12:20:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dwatrolaboratories.com\/?p=11105"},"modified":"2026-10-05T15:35:41","modified_gmt":"2026-10-05T13:35:41","slug":"what-is-coeliac-disease","status":"publish","type":"slownik","link":"https:\/\/dwatrolaboratories.com\/en\/glossary\/what-is-coeliac-disease\/","title":{"rendered":"What is Coeliac Disease? Definition"},"content":{"rendered":"

Coeliac disease \u2013 an autoimmune disease connected with gluten<\/h1>\n

The clinical picture of coeliac disease<\/h2>\n

The disease can take a very varied course. In the classic form diarrhoea, flatulence, loss of body weight and abdominal pain predominate. In many patients, however, extraintestinal symptoms occur, such as iron deficiency anaemia, osteoporosis, chronic fatigue, aphthous ulcers in the mouth, headaches, lowered mood or infertility. There is also silent coeliac disease, in which the patient does not feel the typical intestinal ailments, but tests show the presence of characteristic antibodies and atrophy of the intestinal villi. The variety of symptoms means that the diagnosis is sometimes delayed by as much as several years.<\/p>\n

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The diagnostic process<\/h2>\n

The diagnosis of coeliac disease requires thorough testing. The basis is serological tests detecting antibodies against tissue transglutaminase, endomysium and deamidated gliadin peptides. In the case of positive results, a gastroscopy with a biopsy of the small intestine is performed in order to assess the degree of damage to the intestinal villi. Genetic tests for the HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 haplotypes, which increase the risk of developing the disease, are additionally helpful. It is important that the diagnostics take place with a normal intake of gluten, because eliminating this protein from the diet beforehand may falsify the test results.<\/p>\n

Treatment of coeliac disease<\/h2>\n

The only effective method of treatment is the complete elimination of gluten from the diet. A gluten-free diet has to be followed for life. This means giving up products containing wheat, barley, rye and oats contaminated with gluten. Naturally gluten-free grains, such as rice, maize, buckwheat, amaranth or quinoa, are permitted. Following the diet leads to the regeneration of the intestinal villi, the disappearance of symptoms and an improvement in the quality of life. It should be remembered, however, that even small amounts of gluten are harmful and can trigger inflammation in the intestine again.<\/p>\n

Complications resulting from a lack of treatment<\/h2>\n

Untreated coeliac disease is associated with numerous serious health consequences. Among them are severe deficiencies of vitamins and minerals, osteoporosis, fertility disorders, chronic fatigue, as well as an increased risk of developing cancers, especially lymphoma of the small intestine. The disease often coexists with other autoimmune conditions, such as type 1 diabetes, autoimmune thyroiditis or liver diseases. Early diagnosis and the introduction of a gluten-free diet significantly reduce the risk of complications.<\/p>\n

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The challenges of everyday life with coeliac disease<\/h2>\n

Life with coeliac disease requires careful meal planning and education. Gluten is present not only in bread or pasta, but also in many processed products, such as sauces, spices, sweets or cured meats. Cross-contamination in the kitchen, when trace amounts of gluten can get into a dish, is also a significant problem. Patients should learn to read labels, choose certified products and apply safety rules while cooking. The support of a dietitian and of patient groups is of enormous importance in adapting to the new health situation.<\/p>\n

Supplementation and support from DWATRO Laboratories<\/h2>\n

In people with coeliac disease, deficiencies of iron, folic acid, vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium or zinc often occur. In many cases supplementation is necessary. Modern preparations, such as the products of DWATRO Laboratories<\/a>, make use of liposomal technologies which increase the bioavailability of nutrients. Thanks to this, supplementation becomes more effective, which is particularly important in the case of people with a damaged small intestine and problems with absorption. Preparations supporting the rebuilding of vitamin and mineral reserves can speed up the return to full health and make everyday functioning easier.<\/p>\n

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Differences between coeliac disease and gluten intolerance<\/h2>\n

It is worth distinguishing coeliac disease from other problems connected with the consumption of gluten. Non-coeliac gluten intolerance causes gastric symptoms and a general feeling of being unwell, but it does not lead to the destruction of the intestinal villi and is not connected with an autoimmune reaction. Wheat allergy is IgE-dependent in nature and can cause symptoms typical of food allergies, such as urticaria or asthma. A correct diagnosis makes it possible to introduce the appropriate therapeutic management.<\/p>\n

Coeliac disease versus gluten intolerance and allergy<\/h2>\n

It is worth distinguishing coeliac disease from other problems connected with gluten:<\/p>\n