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Coeliac disease
I'm having an 18-year-old Scottish student to stay for a few weeks. I have been told she suffers from Coeliac disease and although I've heard of it, I don't really know what it is. Can you enlighten me?
Coeliac disease is a disorder of the small intestine caused by a sensitivity to gluten found in food. Gluten is a type of protein present in most grains, especially wheat, rye, barley and oats. The lining of the small intestine usually has a velvety texture, but in those with Coeliac disease, the lining tends to be smooth and flat. This reduces the intestine's ability to absorb nutrients including, protein, sugars, minerals and vitamins from food. The condition usually appears within the first few weeks of cereals being introduced to a baby's diet. Adult sufferers can experience a range of symptoms, including tiredness, weight loss, diarrhoea, flatulence and tummy swelling.
So it's not something we could catch from her?
Coeliac disease is a hereditary disorder and not the sort of condition that can be passed from person to person, so, no, it's not contagious. A relatively common condition, it seems to affect mainly those of Celtic origin.
The reason for its occurrence is still unknown. Diagnosis is by means of a biopsy of the lining of the small intestine and the disorder is manageable as long as a special diet is adhered to. Older coeliac sufferers may become anaemic due to poor absorption of nutrients.
What should I avoid giving her to eat?
Treatment of Coeliac disease is by a special diet which excludes gluten in all its forms. Avoid giving her the obvious foods containing gluten, such as bread, pasta, crispbreads or flour. Biscuits, cakes and some breakfast cereals are also off the list.
Don't serve battered or breadcrumbed fish or chicken dishes and be aware that many foods contain hidden sources of gluten. These include pastry, stock cubes and gravy and dessert mixes.
Ice cream and processed foods may also contain gluten, so check the labels. Some supermarkets now supply gluten-free breads, crackers and biscuits which are made with special flour, so her diet should not be boring. Plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and fish should ensure a good supply of nutrients.