Gluten can cause several diseases in susceptible individuals. According to research, the five major gluten-related illnesses are celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, wheat allergy, gluten ataxia, and dermatitis herpetiformis.
Gluten-Related Diseases Explained
Here's a breakdown of each disease:
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Celiac Disease: An autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, causing damage to the small intestine.
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Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS): Characterized by symptoms similar to celiac disease, but without the same level of intestinal damage.
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Wheat Allergy: An allergic reaction to proteins found in wheat, including gluten. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.
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Gluten Ataxia: A rare autoimmune disorder that affects the cerebellum, leading to problems with coordination and balance.
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Dermatitis Herpetiformis: A chronic skin condition characterized by itchy blisters, often associated with celiac disease.
Summary
Here is a quick overview in the table.
| Disease | Description |
|---|---|
| Celiac Disease | Autoimmune disorder causing small intestine damage. |
| Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity | Gluten sensitivity without the intestinal damage seen in celiac disease. |
| Wheat Allergy | Allergic reaction to wheat proteins, including gluten. |
| Gluten Ataxia | Autoimmune disorder affecting coordination and balance. |
| Dermatitis Herpetiformis | Chronic skin condition characterized by itchy blisters and often linked to celiac disease. |
