For a patient with celiac disease, which dietary modification is essential?

• A. Increase sugar intake
• B. Elimination of gluten-containing foods (wheat, barley, rye)
• C. High-fat dairy only
• D. Avoid all carbohydrates

Answer: (B)

Eliminating gluten from the diet is essential for someone with celiac disease. Gluten, a protein in wheat, barley, and rye, triggers an autoimmune reaction in the small intestine, causing inflammation and damage to the lining. Avoiding gluten allows the intestinal mucosa to heal and improves nutrient absorption and symptoms. This is lifelong because even tiny amounts or cross-contact can provoke symptoms and damage, so careful food choices and label reading are important. Naturally gluten-free foods like rice, corn, and potatoes are safe, but always check for hidden gluten in processed products. Other options don’t address the trigger—they either ignore the gluten issue or impose unnecessary restrictions, since many gluten-free carbohydrates are safe to eat.