Celiac Disease

Description

Celiac disease may also be called: Gluten-sensitive enteropathy or Non-tropical sprue. It is a very specific form of food intolerance.

This refers to a form of malnutrition occurring in infants and adults. Celiac disease is activated by ingestion of cereal glutens. Gluten, a protein from cereals like wheat and rye, damages the lining of the small intestine, causing malabsorption and malnutrition.

Causes

It appears to be a genetic disorder, mostly of Europeans, especially common in the west of Ireland (or descendants in the United States).

Signs & Symptoms

Some people who suffer damage do not exhibit symptoms. Generally, infants have excess gas and foul smelling feces, containing a lot of fats and other nutrients. The gas may also cause a bloated stomach. Vomiting may occur, as well as diarrhea leading to dehydration and weight loss. Defective absorption of iron and other nutrients may lead to anemia.

Some patients develop a distinctive skin rash (“dermatitis herpetiformis”).

In adults, a deficiency of lactase may exist. This would impair the ability to digest milk foods.

Nutritional Supplements

Structure & Function: Immune System Support

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General Supplements
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B-complex	100-300 mg
Vitamin A	25,0000 i.u.
Vitamin E	400 i.u.

Also see Diarrhea and Nausea

Some authorities recommend vitamin C but care must be taken to distinguish diarrhea relating to celiac disease itself and that from exceeding the tolerance to vtiamin C.

Note:

All amounts are in addition to those supplements having a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). Due to individual needs, one must always be aware of a possible undetermined effect when taking nutritional supplements. If any disturbances from the use of a particular supplement should occur, stop its use immediately and seek the care of a qualified health care professional.

Dietary Considerations

Clearly, a gluten-free diet is indicated. [Gluten occurs in wheat, rye, oats, barley (including malt) and buckwheat.] Adults may also need to avoid milk foods.

A multi-mineral and multi-vitamin regimen may be needed to restore nutrient levels, although studies have singled out the following nutrients: folic acid, pyridoxine, vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, copper, iron and selenium.

Homeopathic Remedy

Description	Remedy
Acute diarrhea	Croton tiglium
Aqueous diarrhea	Podophyllum
Colic	Chamomilla tinct.
Food intolerance	Aloe
Liver	Nux vomica
Morning diarrhea	Aloe
Nausea	Ipecacuanha

Treatment Schedule

Over-the-counter homeopathic remedies may be single strength (of fairly weak potency e.g. 6X ) or a blend of several weaker strengths (6X, 8X, 10X).

This may comprise a single remedy, or several remedies.

Doses are administered on a 3 times daily (tid), between meals,schedule and continued for 3 days.

Liquid preparations usually use 8-10 drops per dose.

Solid preparations are usually 2 or 3 pellets per dose.

Children use 1/2 dose i.e. 1 pellet.

If there is aggravation of the symptoms, stop taking the remedy and consult a homeopath.

References

Murphy, R. : Homeopathic Medical Repertory. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1993.

Murphy, R. : Lotus Materia Medica. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1995.

Pert, J.C.: Homeopathy for the Family. The Homoeopathic Development Foundation, London. 1985 edition.

Tissue Salts

Kali Phos.

wasting, putrid stools;

Herbal Approaches

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Herbs
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Aloe vera
Ginger
Echinacea
Goldenseal
Milk Thistle Herb

Note: The misdirected use of an herb can produce severely adverse effects, especially in combination with prescription drugs. This Herbal information is for educational purposes and is not intended as a replacement for medical advice.

Aromatherapy - Essential Oils

Celiac disease itself has been favorably treated with the following oils:

Carrot seed Essence,

Chamomile Essence.

Intestinal health may be promoted by:

Lovage root Essence,

Nutmeg Essence.

Related Health Conditions

Other autoimune diseases e.g.:

        Alopecia areata
        Anemia
        Dermatitis herpetiformis
        Growth retardation
        Insulin-dependent diabetes
        Lupus erythematosus
        Mesenteric lymphadenopathy
        Pernicious anemia
        Rheumatoid arthritis
        Thyroid disease

Abstracts

References

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