The purpose of a gluten free diet is to eliminate gluten - a protein found in wheat, rye, oats and barley from ones diet. When an individual fully eliminates gluten from their diet, the damage to the small intestine caused by gluten completely resolves. As the surface of the small intestine that allows for normal absorption of nutrients normalizes, the symptoms of celiac disease lessen and eventually disappear.

Living symptom free with Celiac Disease is dependent on strict adherence to a gluten free diet. Eliminating foods made from wheat, rye, oats and barley renders individuals with Celiac Disease at risk for vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

Food products made from wheat, rye, oats and barley (breads, cereals, pasta, soups …) are often main sources of vitamins and minerals that are essential to good health. Commercial products that are gluten free tend to be lower in B vitamins and folic acid. Due to the lack of vitamin fortification in commercial products, a gluten free vitamin/mineral supplement is often recommended by dietitians and doctors.

Learn more