Celiac disease

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Celiac disease is an abnormal immune system reaction to gluten, a protein found in grains like wheat, barley, rye, and triticale (a wheat-rye cross). It damages the small intestine so that it can't do a good job of absorbing nutrients from your food.

If you have celiac disease, you need to avoid foods that contain gluten.

Celiac disease is also known as celiac sprue, gluten-sensitive enteropathy, and nontropical sprue.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.