Celiac Disease Risk Significantly Higher for Type 1 Diabetics

Type 1 diabetics have a significantly increased risk of developing celiac disease, according to a media release from 2G Pharma. In fact, the frequency of celiac disease doubles in adults with type 1 diabetes to 2% and jumps to 10% incidence among children with type 1 diabetes.

We all know that celiac is exceptionally hard to diagnose because of the broad range of symptoms associated with the disease. Diagnosis becomes even more difficult for patients with type 1 diabetes because most of the children with both conditions experience mild or no symptoms at all of celiac.

So what is type 1 diabetes? According to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), a person with type 1 diabetes doesn't produce any insulin.  Without insulin, the glucose builds up in the blood, causing high blood sugar, or hyperglycemia.  Blood sugar levels that are too high and untreated for long periods of time can lead to ketoacidosis, a very serious condition. Very high blood sugars for an extended period of time can eventually lead to coma and death. It's a serious condition that requires lifelong maintenance However, it's important to note that with proper care, people with type 1 diabetes can live happy, healthy and active lives. 

To learn more about Type 1 Diabetes, please visit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

The good news for people with both type 1 diabetes and celiac disease is that diagnosis of celiac is getting easier and more accessible. In fact, Health Canada recently approved an at-home test that allows you to test for celiac disease from the comfort of your own home. The Biocard Celiac Test uses a fingertip blood sample to measure antibodies in your blood. In just 10 short minutes, the test will identify if you have celiac disease. The makers of the test are confident that the test is accurate, however they still strongly recommend follow-up with your doctor to confirm the diagnosis with a small intestine biopsy.

The test kit can be purchased online and is available in Canada at London Drugs, Rexall Pharma Plus, Price Smart, Save on Foods and other Canadian retail chains. In the United States, the FDA is currently reviewing the test and approval is expected later this year. U.S. residents can order the test for personal use by calling the company directly.

For more information about the test, please visit http://celiachometest.com/

Comments

[Anna Wrafter]

This condition is still relatively unknown, and so often un-diagnosed. This was my case, and the more I find out, typical of most people with Celiac Disease. Now I am coping with a lifestyle change, and while information is limited, I suggest just surfing the web. Here is a link to a book, which is a cookbook, but with other helpful info: http://glutenfreeenterprises.com/index.html (you can purchase it on Amazon for cheaper, though). Actually, Amazon is a good resource, I found several other litings there.