The Dangers of “Silent Celiac”

Written By Regina Santangelo

“I was diagnosed with celiac disease years ago, but I have never followed a gluten-free diet and I feel fine. Is it really that serious?”

Asymptomatic celiac disease, often referred to as “silent celiac,” occurs when an individual does not have the typical symptoms of celiac disease, but still experiences villous atrophy (damage) in their small intestine. Even if you do not experience any symptoms after eating gluten, it is still vitally important that you adhere to a strict gluten free diet after receiving a diagnosis of celiac disease. This is because, when left untreated, celiac disease can result in a myriad of health complications that extend to multiple organ systems, including but not limited to:

  • Additional autoimmune disorders, such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and thyroiditis

  • Arthritis (early onset)

  • Anemia

  • Colitis

  • Death

  • Gallbladder malfunction

  • Heart disease

  • Infertility and miscarriage

  • Internal hemorrhaging

  • Intestinal cancers and non-Hodgkin lymphoma

  • Lactose intolerance

  • Liver failure

  • Malabsorption and malnutrition

  • Nerve damage

  • Neurological conditions, such as ADHD, ataxia, dementia, epilepsy, lack of muscle coordination, migraines, multifocal leucoencephalopathy, myopathy, and neuropathy

  • Osteoporosis or osteopenia (early onset)

  • Pancreatic insufficiency

  • Short stature

  • Skin rashes

  • Tooth enamel defects

  • Unintentional weight loss

  • Vitamin and mineral deficiencies

  • Weak bones

Studies show that individuals with “silent celiac” who continue to consume gluten often experience symptoms or health-related issues later in life. Additionally, when these patients do adopt a gluten free diet, they often discover their celiac disease wasn’t as “silent” as they once thought - noting a higher quality of life and health, improved energy levels, and a reduction in acid reflux, abdominal bloating and distention, flatulence, loose stools, and joint pain.

So next time you’re feeling tempted to snack on gluten, remember that your short-term dietary decisions have long-term consequences for your health.

 

Diagnosed with celiac disease and need guidance? Request a consultation with Regina or join the waitlist for our Celiac Crash Course.

Regina Santangelo
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