Celiac disease (CD) is a condition in which a person’s immune system attacks their body’s own tissues after eating gluten. Gluten intolerance is different and occurs when people feel unwell after eating gluten.
Gluten is a protein that provides binding and structure to products containing different grains, including wheat, barley, and rye. It is safe for many people to consume, but some experience health problems when eating foods that contain it.
Gluten intolerance, also known as gluten sensitivity or non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), occurs when people experience fatigue, discomfort, and some digestive symptoms after eating products that contain gluten. Reducing gluten intake or removing gluten from the diet resolves these symptoms.
CD is an autoimmune disorder in which the body destroys gut tissue after a person consumes gluten. People with celiac should avoid products with gluten or those that have come into contact with gluten during manufacturing.
This article explores both conditions in more detail, including their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.