The disease Sprue (pronounced “Spruh”) is a congenital disease of the small intestine, which is also called celiac disease in children. It is an intolerance to gluten. Gluten is a component of cereals. The mucous membrane of the small intestine is attacked, making it difficult to absorb nutrients from food. Sprue is a chronic condition that can occur at any age. The function of the mucosa can be restored and maintained with a gluten-free diet.
Occurrence of gluten
Gluten is used synonymously for a group of proteins found in grains.
- Wheat
- Rye
- Barley
- Spelt
- Green spelt
How does sprue make itself felt?
Symptoms include diarrhea, a bulging abdomen, abdominal pain, and slowing of height and weight gain in children. However, nonspecific symptoms caused by deficiencies, such as iron deficiency anemia (anemia), are relatively common, indicating the presence of sprue.
The following products can be consumed without concern:
- Rice, millet
- Corn, soybeans
- Meat, potatoes
- Eggs, milk
- Fruit, vegetables
A blood test can detect specific antibodies that occur in this disease. In about ten percent of those who fall ill in childhood, it may also be a temporary gluten allergy.
