Final answer:
Celiac disease is a condition where the consumption of gluten damages the microvilli of the small intestine, leading to malabsorption of large fat molecules and resulting in health complications. Managing the disease requires adherence to a gluten-free diet.
Step-by-step explanation:
Celiac disease affects the small intestine and leads to malabsorption of nutrients, particularly large fat molecules. In those with celiac disease, consuming gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye—triggers an immune response that results in damage to the microvilli lining the small intestine.
This damage significantly decreases the surface area available for nutrient absorption, causing conditions such as steatorrhea, where excessive fat is excreted in the feces, and can lead to further complications like osteoporosis, anemia, and even certain cancers. Following a gluten-free diet is essential for managing celiac disease and preventing further damage to the intestine.