Health

25 Reasons Why Your Stomach Hurts

4. Celiac Disease

Healthcare in Europe

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system reacts to gluten. Gluten is a broad term for a set of proteins found in cereal grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. Gluten induces inflammation in the gut in those with celiac disease. The small intestine is gradually damaged by repeated exposure, which can lead to difficulty absorbing minerals and nutrients from food. Celiac disease affects around one in every 100 individuals worldwide, and many people are unaware that they have the ailment. Undiagnosed celiac disease may affect up to 2.5 million people in the United States. The only method for someone suffering from celiac disease to avoid symptoms is to avoid gluten.