Final answer:
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks its own tissues in response to gluten. Symptoms include cramping, diarrhea, anemia, and weight loss, and the main treatment is a gluten-free diet.
Step-by-step explanation:
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks its own tissues when exposed to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
This immune response damages the microvilli of the small intestine, hindering nutrient absorption and leading to symptoms such as cramping, diarrhea, anemia, and weight loss. The main treatment for celiac disease is following a gluten-free diet, which helps improve symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.