What is Celiac Disease?
 A hereditary, autoimmune disease
 Damaging the villi of the small intestine
 Which interferes with the absorption of nutrients

Overview of Celiac Disease
 1 in 133 Americans have Celiac Disease
 97% do not know it
 An undiagnosed child will have growth issues

Overview of Celiac Disease
 Celiac can be triggered by a stressor such as
 A viral illness
An accident
Surgery
Pregnancy/childbirth
Severe emotional stress

Overview of Celiac Disease
 Potential consequences if Celiac is left undiagnosed:
 Cancer
Osteoporosis
Diabetes
Thyroid problems
Reproductive issues

Overview of Celiac Disease
 The cause of Celiac is the ingestion of foods containing gluten
 Gluten is a group of proteins found in wheat, barely, and rye
 The body responds by damaging the villi in the small intestine

Overview of Celiac Disease
 The small intestine is not the only organ affected.
 Antibodies attack an enzyme called tissue transglutaminase
 This tissue is found in the lining of the small intestine, skin, heart, thyroid, bones, and nervous system

Overview of Celiac Disease
 Some common symptoms of Celiac are:
 Diarrhea
 Weight loss
 Abdominal pain
 Delayed growth
 Joint pain
 Discolored teeth

Overview of Celiac Disease
 Common symptoms
 Headache
 Anemia
 Fatigue
 Skin rash
 infertility

Overview of Celiac Disease
 The only treatment is a gluten free diet

Overview of Celiac Disease
 All foods containing gluten must be avoided
 Essentially, most breads, pasta, grains, cereals, and processed foods
 Oats can be safe, if processed in a certified gluten free facility

Overview of Celiac Disease
 Additionally, there are hidden sources of gluten, such as additives, preservatives, and stabilizers found in processed foods, medicines, and cosmetic products

Overview of Celiac Disease
 How does this affect the classroom?
 Be mindful of ingredients when serving /using food in class
 Contact parents ahead of time so they may provide a gluten free snack or food for a project
 Have students wash hands after using playdough, crayons, glue, papermache

Overview of Celiac Disease
 With a little knowledge and effort, we can keep students with Celiac Disease safe in school. Thank you for your attention to the health and safety of these students.