What is celiac disease and why does it occur?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the body reacts to gluten , a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When a person with celiac disease consumes gluten, their immune system damages the intestinal villi, hindering the absorption of essential nutrients.
Over time, this inflammatory response can cause nutritional deficiencies, chronic fatigue, skin problems, and even hormonal imbalances.
Common symptoms of celiac disease
Recognizing the signs is the first step in determining if you might have celiac disease. Symptoms can vary from person to person, but the most common include:
- Abdominal bloating and frequent gas .
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation.
- Persistent fatigue or anemia.
- Joint or muscle pain.
- Skin rashes or dermatitis herpetiformis.
- Mood swings, anxiety, or depression.
- Unexplained weight loss.
👉 In children, it can manifest as delayed growth or constant irritability .
How to know if you have celiac disease: medical tests and diagnoses
If you suspect you may have celiac disease, it is important not to eliminate gluten on your own before diagnosis , as this could alter the results.
The main medical tests include:
1. Blood test (specific antibodies)
They detect the presence of anti-transglutaminase (tTG) or anti-endomysium (EMA) antibodies , clear markers of an autoimmune reaction to gluten.
2. Intestinal biopsy
It is the most accurate method. It is performed using an endoscopy to observe whether the villi of the intestine are damaged.
3. Genetic test (HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8)
It helps determine genetic predisposition to the disease. If the result is negative, it is unlikely that you have celiac disease.
Treatment and natural alternatives for people with celiac disease
The main treatment is a strict gluten-free diet , but there are natural tools that can promote intestinal recovery and overall body balance.
🌿 1. Probiotic supplements
Probiotics help restore the gut microbiota , improving digestion and reducing inflammation.
🥦 2. Essential Minerals and Vitamins
People with celiac disease often have deficiencies in iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and B vitamins . A well-formulated natural supplement can help compensate for these deficiencies.
🍵 3. Digestive and anti-inflammatory plants
Chamomile, ginger, and turmeric are excellent allies for calming the digestive system and reducing abdominal discomfort.
💧 4. Natural digestive enzymes
They promote proper digestion of food and reduce the feeling of heaviness.
Naturopathic tips for taking care of your digestive system
- Avoid processed foods , even if they are "gluten-free", as they may contain inflammatory additives.
- Stay properly hydrated and consume natural fiber (fruits, vegetables and seeds).
- Practice relaxation techniques , as stress worsens digestive function.
- Support your body with natural supplements that strengthen the intestinal mucosa and improve nutrient absorption.
Knowing if you are celiac involves listening to your body and relying on science.
- Observe your digestive and general symptoms .
- Get the necessary medical tests done before changing your diet.
- Boost your well-being with healthy habits and natural therapies .
Detecting the disease early and adopting a holistic approach can transform your digestive health and daily energy.
