What Happens When a Person with Celiac Disease Ingests Gluten

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the body reacts abnormally to gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. For people with Celiac disease, consuming gluten is far more serious than a temporary stomach upset. It triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine, leading to both immediate symptoms and long-term health complications if exposure continues. The Immune Reaction When gluten is ingested, the body of someone with Celiac disease mistakenly identifies it as harmful. This activates the immune system, particularly in the small intestine, where gluten is broken […]