In celiac disease, which dietary recommendation is appropriate for maintenance?

• A. Demands gluten-free diet; avoid wheat, rye, barley. Oats, rice, or corn are fine. Vitamin supplements.
• B. Regular gluten-containing diet
• C. Lactose-free diet only
• D. No dietary restrictions

Answer: (A)

A gluten-free approach is necessary for long-term control in celiac disease. The goal is lifelong avoidance of gluten, meaning no wheat, rye, or barley. Safe grains include oats (only if certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination), rice, and corn. Because the intestine often has malabsorption at diagnosis, supplementation of vitamins and minerals as needed is common.

Continuing to eat gluten would keep triggering intestinal injury and symptoms. A lactose-free diet alone doesn’t prevent gluten exposure, and having no dietary restrictions would allow ongoing damage.