Gluten Intolerance and Coeliac Disease

Definition from Wikipedia - is an autoimmune disorder of the small intestine that occurs in genetically predisposed people of all ages from middle infancy onward. Symptoms include chronic diarrhoea, failure to thrive (in children), and fatigue, but these may be absent, and symptoms in other organ systems have been described. A growing portion of diagnoses are being made in asymptomatic persons as a result of increased screening; the condition is thought to affect between 1 in 1,750 and 1 in 105 people in the United States.

Coeliac disease is caused by a reaction to gliadin, a prolamin (gluten protein) found in wheat, and similar proteins found in the crops of the tribe Triticeae (which includes other common grains such as barley and rye). Upon exposure to gliadin, and specifically to three peptides found in prolamins, the enzyme tissue transglutaminase modifies the protein, and the immune system cross-reacts with the small-bowel tissue, causing an inflammatory reaction. That leads to a truncating of the villi lining the small intestine (called villous atrophy). This interferes with the absorption of nutrients, because the intestinal villi are responsible for absorption. The only known effective treatment is a lifelong gluten-free diet While the disease is caused by a reaction to wheat proteins, it is not the same as wheat allergy.

Living with Coeliac Disease is a challenge for anyone affected by it.  I know 2 people who have this problem, and one is in my family.  It is always a priority for the individual to be aware of the foods on the table, at the party, wedding reception or restaurant.  These folks have to watch out what they eat each and every day.  Some also take herbs to assist with the symptoms.

Obviously there is no cure for Coeliac Disease, but some herbal combinations and medicines can help manage the symptoms. Here is a product from Progressive Health which has helped some who suffer with Coeliac disease.

Alorex - Comprehensive Formula for Celiac Disease Support. Alorex addresses nutritional and immunilogical needs of people who are gluten intolerant.Alorex effectively reduces gastrointestinal disturbances and promotes nutrient absorption with an influx of digestive-supporting nutrients; all the while promoting a reduction in GI tract inflammation. 

Millions of Americans do not properly digest gluten, which is the offending protein in specific cereal grains. For these people, the consumption of foods containing any form of wheat, rye, barley, or triticale can lead to low levels of certain nutrients and a compromised gastrointestinal tract.

The impact from gluten ingestion is seen within the small intestines. An immunological reaction to gluten causes damage to the villi, or the tiny hair-like projections that absorb nutrients from food.

So people who are gluten intolerant may not be absorbing optimum levels of nutrients, including; proteins, vitamins and minerals, fats, carbohydrates, and sometimes, even water. Poor management of gluten intolerance can lead to more severe conditions. Nutritional supplements help manage the nutritional and immune-related conditions common in people who are glucose intolerant. 

Damage to the small intestines causes celiac disease patients to be at an elevated risk for malnutrition and anemia. The ingredients contained within Alorex help maintain optimal nutrition and help prevent other conditions related to poor nutrient absorption resulting from nutritional inadequacy.

Once products or dietary sources containing grain are ingested, the immune system in gluten intolerant people responds by damaging the small intestine. This results in the formation of scar tissue and subsequent malabsorption of nearly all nutrients needed for growth and development. Again, because the body's immune system causes the damage, celiac disease is considered an autoimmune disorder rather than a food intolerance. 

Learn More About Alorex Here