Can Celiac Disease Affect Life Expectancy? -San Diego, CA

Celiac disease is affected by the presence of gluten. Triggered by a genetic predisposition, celiac can be a challenging condition, leading to many dietary restrictions. Celiac is a disease that has only recently been researched and studied. As research has continued, it has become apparent that there may be a link to an increased risk of mortality.

A woman with her hands on stomach reflecting the impact of Celiac Disease on life in San Diego, CA

Celiac Disease Can Affect the Entire Body

Until very recently, the research has shown a link between celiac and inflammation of the intestines. More specifically, there was evidence of damage to the villi in the small intestines.

However, more recently, studies on celiac have shown that there can be more systemic inflammation and damage to the whole body. In fact, celiac disease has now been linked to osteoporosis, increased risk of bone fracture, increased joint pain, and other whole-body issues.

Celiac Disease May Affect Life Expectancy

How is celiac disease related to life expectancy? Only recently, there was a connection. However, recent research has shown that celiac disease is linked to chronic inflammation that may persist for years after diagnosis. Some of the risks of celiac disease may be linked to the following:

Cardiovascular Disease
Lymphoma
Respiratory Disease
Certain Cancers

Some individuals related to these studies with celiac disease eventually suffered from other complications as well. These complications included bone issues, type 1 diabetes, and intestinal lymphoma.

Dietary Changes and Routine Medical Care May Help Reduce Risks

If you have been diagnosed with celiac disease, there are dietary and lifestyle changes that can reverse the symptoms of the condition.

One symptom of celiac disease is a nutrient deficiency. This isn’t related to the disease itself, but it is related to a deprivation of nutrients. For example, the consumption of whole grains is essential to overall heart health. Additionally, the consumption of fiber helps to reduce cholesterol and reduces inflammation in the intestines. When someone is consuming a gluten-free diet, they may not be digesting enough whole grains or enough fiber. Therefore, it is crucial to retrieve these nutrients from other sources. Some sources of whole grains in a gluten-free diet include:

Quinoa
Oats
Amaranth

Another cause of death that has been tied to celiac disease is upper respiratory disease. Doctors have begun to make a pneumococcal vaccine a routine part of care for celiac patients after initial diagnosis. This may be due to the chronic inflammation that comes along with celiac disease.

Conclusion

Patients should continue to receive care from a physician as well as a dietitian to maintain a healthful lifestyle in order to prevent the long-term effects of celiac disease.

Advanced Functional Medicine

For assistance managing a healthy lifestyle while living with celiac disease, you can turn to the medical experts at Advanced Functional Medicine in San Diego. We take a holistic approach to your healthcare needs and tailor personalized plans to meet your concerns. For more information, visit our website or schedule a consultation to get on the fast track to wellness