Muskegon Area Celiac Support Group

Welcome to the Muskegon Area Celiac Support group web page. We meet on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Hackley Diabetes Program & Nutrition Therapy office at 5969 Harvey Street in Muskegon. Call 231-672-3160 for more information.

What is Celiac Disease?*

Celiac disease is also known as celiac sprue or gluten-sensitivity enteropathy. It is a genetically linked autoimmune disorder that can affect both children and adults. When people with celiac disease eat certain grain-based products that contain gluten, it sets off an immune response that causes damage to the small intestine. This, in turn, interferes with the small intestine’s ability to absorb nutrients found in food, leading to malnutrition and a variety of other complications.

Who has Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is estimated to affect at least 1% of the worldwide population. Over 3,000,000 people in the US may have celiac disease, but only 150,000 have been diagnosed.

What are the Symptoms of Celiac Disease?

Over 300 signs, symptoms, associated disorders and complications may result from celiac disease. Some common health problems include:

Abdominal pain/bloating
Acid reflux
Anemia
Anxiety/Depression
Arthritis
Autoimmune Disease
Behavior Disorders
Chronic Constipation
Chronic Diarrhea
Chronic Fatigue
Dermatitis Herpetiformis
Diabetes
Headache/Migraine
Infertility
Insomnia
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Malnutrition
Neuropathies
Osteporosis/Osteopenia
Swelling
Unexplained Weight Gain/Loss

How is Celiac Disease Diagnosed?

Positive celiac panel blood test
Positive small bowel biopsy
Remission of symptoms on a gluten-free diet

What is the treatment for Celiac Disease?

At this time, the only treatment for celiac disease is the commitment to a strict gluten-free lifestyle. This involves removing all wheat, barley, rye, and common oats from the diet. Successful treatment requires both patient education from a registered dietitian and medical follow-up.

Celiac Support Group Newsletter

For more information about the Muskegon Area Celiac Support Group, email us at glutenfree_muskegonarea@yahoo.com