Celiac disease is a problem some people have with foods that contain gluten. Gluten is a type of protein. It's found in the grains wheat, barley, rye, and triticale (a wheat-rye cross).

When you have this disease and you eat food with gluten in it, the gluten triggers an immune response that isn't normal. This damages the inside of your small intestine so that it can't do a good job of absorbing nutrients from your food.

Celiac disease can lead to anemia or osteoporosis.

In children, celiac disease can slow growth and weaken bones. If it isn't treated, your child can get very sick.