What is celiac disease? Celiac disease -- also known as celiac sprue or gluten-sensitive enteropathy -- is a digestive and autoimmune disorder that results in damage to the lining of the small intestine when foods with gluten are eaten. Glutens are a form of protein found in some grains. The damage to the intestine makes it hard for the body to absorb nutrients, especially fat, calcium, iron, and folate.

What are some common symptoms? Digestive problems (abdominal bloating, pain, gas, diarrhea, pale stools, and weight loss); a severe skin rash called dermatitis herpetiformis; iron deficiency anemia (low blood count); musculoskeletal problems (muscle cramps, joint and bone pain); growth problems and failure to thrive (in children); seizures; tingling sensation in the legs (caused by nerve damage and low calcium); aphthous ulcers (sores in the mouth); missed menstrual periods.

Common grains containing gluten: wheat, rye, and barley

Alternatives to grains with gluten: corn and rice cereals, potatoes

--Source: www.webmd.com