Celiac Sprue Disease Defined

Learn more about celiac disease and how to diagnose and treat it

Also known as gluten sensitivity enteropathy (GSE), celiac sprue, or nontropical sprue, celiac disease is a condition caused by an allergy to gluten, which is a protein found in grains, particularly wheat, rye, and barley. It’s considered an immune disease because, for those suffering from celiac disease, foods that contain gluten trigger an immune reaction in the small intestine that results in the destruction of the mucosa of the small intestine as well as many other tissues throughout the body.

For some reason, there's the misconception in the United States that celiac disease is a rare condition. Nothing could be further from the truth. Numerous studies have shown it to be a very common yet under-diagnosed problem. In the general population, celiac disease affects one in every 133 individuals.

More Dr. Williams Advice on Celiac Disease

• Symptoms of celiac disease
• What causes celiac disease and gluten sensitivity?
• Natural suggestions for relief from celiac disease and gluten sensitivity
• Why conventional doctors may overlook a diagnosis of celiac disease
• My gluten-free guide to treat celiac disease