Which digestive condition is commonly linked to gluten intolerance?

Celiac disease is a digestive condition that is specifically linked to gluten intolerance. It is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, leads to damage in the small intestine. When individuals with celiac disease consume gluten, their immune system responds by attacking the lining of the small intestine, which can result in various gastrointestinal symptoms as well as systemic effects.

Understanding celiac disease underscores the importance of gluten in relation to certain health conditions. People with this condition must adhere to a strict gluten-free diet to prevent symptoms and complications, which can include diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and malabsorption of nutrients.

The other digestive conditions mentioned, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), are not specifically associated with gluten intolerance in the same way. While symptoms of IBS may sometimes overlap with those experienced by individuals who have gluten sensitivity, it is not uniquely linked to gluten as celiac disease is. Similarly, diverticulitis relates to inflammation of pouches in the colon, and GERD pertains to acid reflux issues, neither of which is directly tied to gluten intolerance.