ROSH Gastrointestinal Practice Exam

What is the treatment for celiac disease?

1. Gluten-free diet

2. High fiber diet

3. Low carbohydrate diet

4. High protein diet

The correct answer is: Gluten-free diet

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder characterized by an inappropriate immune response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. The primary and most effective treatment for managing celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet. This means that individuals must completely eliminate all sources of gluten from their diet, which allows the intestinal mucosa to heal and prevents further damage that can lead to various symptoms and complications. Adhering to a gluten-free diet resolves symptoms for many patients and significantly reduces the risk of long-term complications associated with the disease, such as intestinal cancers and other autoimmune disorders. It is crucial for patients to be educated not only about the foods that contain gluten but also about cross-contamination and hidden sources of gluten in processed foods. Other dietary approaches, such as high fiber, low carbohydrate, or high protein diets, do not address the underlying issue of gluten sensitivity associated with celiac disease and, therefore, are not suitable as treatments for this condition. They may have their own health benefits in different contexts but do not manage or alleviate the specific problems caused by the ingestion of gluten in affected individuals.