Coeliac Disease

What is Coeliac Disease?

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine. It is triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When a person with coeliac disease consumes gluten, their immune system mounts a response that causes damage to the small intestine. This damage, in turn, leads to a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, weight loss, and malnutrition.

The pathogenesis of coeliac disease is complex and involves the interaction of several factors. One key factor is genetics. People with certain genetic predispositions are more likely to develop coeliac disease. Environmental factors, such as viral infections, also play a role in the development of the disease.

 

Game Changing Pioneers in Coeliac Disease – Alessio Fasano

Alessio Fasano is a leading researcher in the field of coeliac disease. His work has helped to shed light on the mechanisms underlying the disease and has led to the development of new diagnostic and treatment approaches. Fasano’s research has focused on the role of a protein called zonulin, which is involved in the regulation of the permeability of the gut barrier. Fasano’s work has suggested that increased levels of zonulin may contribute to the development of coeliac disease by causing “leaky gut,” a condition in which the tight junctions between intestinal cells become more permeable, allowing substances such as toxins and undigested food particles to pass through the gut barrier and into the bloodstream.

 

Leaky Gut and Coeliac Disease

There is a link between coeliac disease and leaky gut, as Fasano’s research has shown. People with coeliac disease often have increased intestinal permeability, which may contribute to the development of the disease. Naturopaths view leaky gut as a major contributor to a range of health problems, including coeliac disease. They believe that leaky gut can lead to inflammation and the activation of the immune system, which in turn can lead to the development of autoimmune disorders such as coeliac disease.

 

How Naturopaths Treat Coeliac Disease

Naturopaths take a holistic approach to the treatment of coeliac disease, focusing on supporting the body’s natural healing processes and addressing the underlying causes of the disease. They may recommend dietary and lifestyle changes, such as the adoption of a gluten-free diet, to help alleviate symptoms and support healing. Naturopaths may also recommend supplements and herbs to support the gut and immune system, and may use techniques such as acupuncture to help reduce inflammation and support healing.

In conclusion, coeliac disease is a complex autoimmune disorder that is triggered by the ingestion of gluten. It is characterized by damage to the small intestine and a range of symptoms including abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. The pathogenesis of the disease involves the interaction of several factors, including genetics and environmental factors. Alessio Fasano’s research has shed light on the role of zonulin in the development of coeliac disease and has suggested that leaky gut may contribute to the development of the disease. Naturopaths view leaky gut as a major contributor to a range of health problems and take a holistic approach to the treatment of coeliac disease, focusing on supporting the body’s natural healing processes and addressing the underlying causes of the disease.

If you need any assistance with managing coeliac disease, please book an appointment with one of our naturopaths today.