What chronic autoimmune disorder necessitates the removal of gluten from the diet?

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that occurs in genetically predisposed individuals where the ingestion of gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye—leads to damage in the small intestine. When a person with celiac disease consumes gluten, their immune system responds by attacking the lining of the intestine, which can result in a range of symptoms including gastrointestinal distress, malabsorption of nutrients, and an increased risk for other autoimmune disorders.

The only effective treatment for celiac disease is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. By eliminating gluten from their diet, individuals with this condition can heal their intestines and prevent further damage. This dietary change allows for the restoration of intestinal health and alleviation of symptoms.

In contrast, lactose intolerance involves the inability to properly digest lactose, a sugar found in milk, and does not require the removal of gluten. Dumping syndrome refers to rapid gastric emptying and is often a complication post-surgery; it does not directly relate to gluten intake. Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, but it is not specifically linked to gluten ingestion in the same way celiac disease is.