Celiac disease is an autoimmune medical condition that causes damage to the epithelium, which is the small intestine's inner lining. This occurs when ingesting gluten.

Gluten is a grain protein used in foods to bind, stablilize adn prevent crumbling. The gluten protein in wheat is called gliadin, and a protion of the gladin is toxic to Celiac patients.

Villi are small finger-like projections that help nutrients pass through the intestine. Gluten can cause damage by triggering an abnormal immune response that flattens and alters the small intestinal villi.

Some common symptoms include anemia, chronic diarrhea, weight loss, cramps, fatigue, bloating, irritability, and skin problems.