Food Additives Role in Celiac Disease

 Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease in which gluten ingestion results in damage to the lining of the small intestine. The damage to the small intestine leads to nutritional deficiencies and various disease conditions.

Celiac disease is found in genetically predisposed individuals when they consume grains such as wheat, oat, barley, etc. Celiac disease, if left untreated or undiagnosed, can lead to serious complications. Though the exact cause of celiac disease is unknown, certain genes have been held responsible for its development. The primary treatment for celiac disease is a gluten-free diet.

One in 100 people are affected by celiac disease worldwide; however, recent studies show an increase in celiac disease prevalence. Food processing is said to play a key role in the increased prevalence; evidence suggests that certain food additives can trigger autoimmune attacks, which may lead to celiac disease.

What are the symptoms of celiac disease?

Celiac disease is associated with around 200 symptoms, making it difficult to make an exact diagnosis. The symptoms may occur in the digestive system or other parts of the human body. There is also a possibility of being asymptomatic and still test positive for the disease when a blood test is done - the reason for this is yet to be deciphered.

The symptoms can differ between adults and children, with children being more prone to digestive symptoms. Some common symptoms of celiac disease are as follows:

• abdominal bloating and pain
• chronic diarrhea, constipation, vomiting
• pale, foul-smelling, or fatty stool
• iron-deficiency anemia
• weight loss
• fatigue
• bone or joint pain

• seizures or migraines
• missed menstrual periods
• canker sores
• itching and rash

Role of food additives in celiac disease

Food additives are substances added to improve the taste, safety, and appearance of food products. Food additives can be derived from animals, plants, minerals, and synthetic sources. There are three major classes of food additives - flavoring agents that improve taste or aroma, enzyme preparations, and other additives for preservation, coloring or sweetening.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), food additives need to be safe and approved before use. Though food additives are generally safe, recent research shows a link between the increased prevalence of celiac disease and the consumption of certain food additives.

Source: Medical News Today