Summary: Celiac Disease is on the rise, even in kids. How can you best protect your little one from the effects of the condition?Celiac disease is a chronic condition that occurs in about 1 in 100 people and results in damage to the lining of the small intestines. It affects those individuals who have the genetic potential for the condition. The disease is triggered by the ingestion of products that contain wheat, barley or rye, collectively known as gluten. A number of genes have been identified that are related to celiac disease, and it seems there is no one specific gene that causes the disease to become active; rather a combination of genes is involved. The major trigger factor that leads to escalation of the disease is the ingestion of foods that contain wheat, barley or rye proteins. Pediatric gastroenterologist, Ivor Hill, MD, is one of the leading clinicians and researchers in childhood celiac disease. He joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss celiac disease in children and what you can do to help your celiac child lead a normal and healthy life.
