Celiac Facts for Patients

Small, finger-like projections that extend into the lumen of the small intestine. Villi increase the internal surface area of the intestinal walls making a greater surface available.

Occurs when the intestinal villi (=fingerlike structures in the small intestine that increase the surface of the intestine) flatten, leaving a virtually flat surface with a reduced surface for absorption.

Vitamins are a group of substances that are needed for normal cell function, growth, and development.
There are 13 essential vitamins.

This vitamin is important for the normal formation of red blood cells and the function of the nerve tissues. Undetected and untreated vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia and permanent nerve and brain damage.

Is a skin disease characterized by patches of skin losing their pigment. This means that these patches have a lighter color compared to the normal skin color of that person. The cause is normally unknown, but it is assumed that an autoimmune disease can be the trigger. There is no known cure.