What’s It Really All About? If you’ve ever wondered whether coeliac disease is “just a gluten intolerance” – it’s not.
Coeliac disease is a serious, lifelong autoimmune condition that affects how the body digests and absorbs nutrients. And while awareness has grown, it’s still widely misunderstood and significantly underdiagnosed.
At Younger Longer, we believe understanding why something matters is just as important as knowing what to do. So let’s break it down – simply and clearly.
What Is Coeliac Disease?
Coeliac disease is a permanent intolerance to gluten, a protein found in:
- Wheat
- Barley
- Rye
- Oats (unless certified gluten-free)
- Triticale (a wheat–rye hybrid)
Gluten shows up in far more than bread and pasta. It can be hidden in:
- Sauces and gravies
- Processed foods
- Supplements and sports products
- Medications
For people with coeliac disease, eating gluten triggers an immune reaction that damages the lining of the small intestine. Why That Damage Matters The small intestine is lined with tiny finger-like projections called villi.
Their job is to absorb nutrients – carbohydrates, fats, proteins and essential vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, zinc and B vitamins.