Menu Healthy Lifestyle Diseases & Conditions First Aid Symptoms Tests & Procedures Videos Definitions FAQs Celiac diseaseUpdated: 2017-06-13OverviewCeliac disease is an immune reaction to eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Over time, the reaction creates inflammation that damages the small intestine's lining. It also prevents absorption of some nutrients (malabsorption).TreatmentsA strict gluten-free diet can help manage symptoms and promote intestinal healing. © 1998-2022 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research(MFMER). All rights reserved. Terms of Use