Combatting Celiac

If you have a wheat allergy, celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, eating foods that contain gluten—a type of protein found in wheat, rye and barley—can be harmful to your body and your health.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which eating gluten prompts your immune system to attack the lining of your small intestine. This cam harm your body, making it harder to absorb certain nutrients and can lead to long-term health problems. Symptoms can include stomach pain, diarrhea, weight loss, chronic fatigue and neurological problems. The only known treatment for celiac disease is to avoid gluten because even tiny amounts can cause intestinal damage.

Listen to CHS's Executive Vice President & System Chief Medical Officer Dr. O'Shaughnessy explain what you need to know about gluten and its effect on your body:

For more health information, go to CHS’s YouTube channel to view all of Dr. O’s Health Tips & Solutions.

If you need a physician, please visit www.chsli.org or call 1-855-CHS-4500.