A gluten-free diet is essential for individuals with which condition?

A gluten-free diet is essential for individuals with celiac disease because this autoimmune disorder causes the body to react adversely to gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When someone with celiac disease consumes gluten, it triggers an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine. This damage can lead to a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malnutrition due to impaired nutrient absorption.

Following a strict gluten-free diet allows individuals with celiac disease to avoid these harmful effects, promote healing of the intestinal lining, and prevent further complications associated with the disease. In contrast, while hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease involve dietary considerations, they do not necessitate the elimination of gluten from one’s diet.