Medical nutrition therapy of gluten sensitive enteropathy

Gluten sensitive enteropathy or celiac disease is clearly more prevalent than was previously thought. Gluten-sensitive enteropathy is the inherited autoimmune condition characterized by inflammation of the small intestine in response to the ingestion of gluten present in cereals such as wheat, barley, and rye. Elimination of the gluten from the diet assigned as medical nutrition therapy for gluten sensitive enteropathy is the first line of the treatment for coeliac disease. Gluten-free diet is an effective treatment that can alleviate symptoms and allows reduction in small intestinal inflammation and permits mucosal healing with improved absorptive function. However, gluten free diet is very complex and claimed. Also, strict adherence and life-long maintenance to the diet is very important in the aim to prevent macronutrient and micronutrient deficiency. Except that, regular involvement of the gluten free diet is important for preventing some complications such as anemia, osteoporosis, development of a neoplasm, and the risk of additional autoimmune disorders. Although there are many attempts for developing alternatives to the gluten-free diet, it currently still remains the only effective treatment option for gluten sensitive enteropathy.