Treatment

The treatment of gluten intolerance consists primarily of a complete change of diet. Food containing gluten must be strictly avoided. Since gluten is present in most types of grain, such a diet is often not easy to implement at the beginning.

A gluten-free diet leads to a slow recovery of the mucous membrane of the small intestine and the symptoms are usually completely reduced. Grains that must be strictly avoided are rye, barley and wheat, as well as spelt and oats. Since gluten is also often used as an emulsifier or for gelling, it must be ensured that finished products do not contain gluten.

Cereals such as millet, rice, corn and buckwheat are permitted as part of a gluten-free diet. Chestnut and soy flour can also be used as alternatives. Potatoes and dairy products as well as meat, fish and eggs are also no problem.

Is gluten intolerance curable?

Gluten intolerance is not curable in the conventional sense, as the symptoms occur repeatedly when foods containing gluten are consumed. However, the disease can be described as curable to the extent that, with a strictly gluten-free diet, the mucous membrane of the small intestine usually recovers completely and no symptoms remain.

What are the consequences of gluten intolerance?

In children, gluten intolerance can lead to permanent tooth damage and growth retardation. It can also lead to nutrient and vitamin deficiencies. This can lead to reduced iron absorption.

This can lead to anemia. Due to a lack of calcium and vitamin D, in the context of the resorption disorder, the development of osteoporosis, i.e. increased bone fragility, can be promoted. The risk of developing other autoimmune diseases is also increased.

These include thyroid diseases, for example. Patients with celiac disease are more likely to develop depression. In the case of gluten intolerance, which goes untreated for decades, the risk of cancer is also increased.However, most of these consequences can be prevented by a gluten-free diet.