What dietary modification is the primary treatment for celiac disease?

The primary treatment for celiac disease is a gluten-free diet. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, leads to damage in the small intestine. The consumption of gluten triggers an inappropriate immune response that results in inflammation and injury to the intestinal lining, which can cause a range of gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms.

By eliminating gluten from the diet, individuals with celiac disease can prevent the adverse effects associated with gluten consumption, allowing the intestinal lining to heal and reducing symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and malabsorption of nutrients. This dietary modification is essential for managing the disease and preventing long-term complications, such as malnutrition and an increased risk of other autoimmune disorders and certain cancers.

While some other dietary restrictions may provide benefits for various health conditions, they do not address the fundamental issue in celiac disease, which is the intolerance to gluten. Therefore, following a strict gluten-free diet is the only effective means of managing celiac disease and promoting recovery.