Coeliac disease is a significant medical condition that can result in a number of serious consequences if not diagnosed and treated properly.

It affects the small intestine – the part of the digestive system responsible for absorbing nutrients.

In a person with coeliac disease, the lining of the small intestine is damaged by gluten. Gluten is a protein component of wheat, rye, barley and oats.

Coeliac disease is caused by an interaction between gluten (the protein portion of wheat) and the small bowel lining in people susceptible to the disease.

This cause damage to the lining which results in a reduction in the surface area of the villi or finger-like projections of the bowel lining.

Both genetic and environmental factors play important roles in coeliac disease.

The most common symptoms can include: Anaemia Bloating and flatulence Diarrhoea or constipation Fatigue, weakness and lethargy Nausea and vomiting Stomach cramps Weight loss – although weight gain is

possible.

Healthy normal villi of the small intestine

Damaged villi of a person with undiagnosed coeliacdisease

The only treatment is the avoidance of all gluten containing foods. This allows the bowel lining to recover. This strict attention to diet must be lifelong.

Foods that contain gluten include: bread, cakes and pasta. However, there is also a whole range of

ingredients within prepared and commercial foods that can come from a gluten source.

It is essential that a person with coeliac disease become ‘ingredient aware’.

INGREDIENTS

30g butter ½ cup gluten free plain

flour ¼ teaspoon baking powder ¼ cup caster sugar 1 egg 1 tablespoon milk ½ teaspoon vanilla essence 1 tablespoon cocoa powder

METHOD

Pre heat oven to 200°C. Line patty cake tray with paper cups

Melt butter in the microwave for 30 seconds

Sift all dry ingredients into a bowl and add egg, milk and essence

Stir in melted butter Mix well and pour into patty

tray Bake in oven for 12 minutes Remove from oven and cool