Celiac Disease
Prevention
Although celiac disease cannot be prevented, symptoms and damage to the small intestine can be reversed by maintaining a strict gluten-free diet. Initially, you may also have to avoid milk and milk products. After you stop eating gluten, the intestines begin to heal and you likely will be able to gradually reintroduce milk products into your diet without triggering symptoms. For more information about a gluten-free diet, see Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating adapted for a gluten-free diet.
Some adults with celiac disease have a poorly functioning or non-functional spleen, which is a risk factor for developing a pneumococcal infection. For this reason, your doctor may recommend that you get immunized with the pneumococcal vaccine.
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| Author: | Amy Fackler, MA Debby Golonka, MPH Carrie Henley | Last Updated: August 23, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Tom Bailey, MD - Family Medicine Jerry S. Trier, MD - Gastroenterology | |
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