Penn Herb Wellness Guide

Celiac Disease

Also indexed as:Celiac Sprue, Enteropathy (Gluten), Gluten Enteropathy, Non-Tropical Sprue
The gluten found in grain may trigger celiac disease in some people. By keeping a close eye on your diet, you can remedy many of the symptoms. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.
  • Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
  • Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
  • For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

SupplementAmountWhy
Calcium
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner2 stars[2 stars]
The malabsorption that occurs in celiac disease can lead to multiple nutritional deficiencies. Supplementing with calcium may correct a deficiency.
Digestive Enzymes
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner2 stars[2 stars]
Some evidence suggests that enzyme supplements may be useful at the beginning of dietary treatment for this disease.
Folic Acid
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner2 stars[2 stars]
The malabsorption that occurs in celiac disease can lead to multiple nutritional deficiencies. Supplementing with folic acid may correct a deficiency.
Iron

(Iron-Deficiency Anemia)
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner2 stars[2 stars]
The malabsorption that occurs in celiac disease can lead to multiple nutritional deficiencies. Supplementing with iron may correct a deficiency.
Magnesium
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner2 stars[2 stars]
The malabsorption that occurs in celiac disease can lead to multiple nutritional deficiencies. Supplementing with magnesium may correct a deficiency.
Multivitamin
Select a high potency formula and follow label directions2 stars[2 stars]
Some doctors recommend taking a high-potency multivitamin-mineral supplement to reduce the risk of nutrient deficiencies caused by the malabsorption that occurs in celiac disease.
Vitamin A
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner2 stars[2 stars]
Vitamin A deficiency may occur as a result of celiac disease, in which case vitamin A supplements or injections can be beneficial.
Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, and Folic Acid
3 mg vitamin B6, 0.8 mg folic acid, and 0.5 mg vitamin B122 stars[2 stars]
Daily supplementation with a combination of vitamin B6 (3 mg), folic acid (0.8 mg), and vitamin B12 (0.5 mg) have been shown to help relieve depression in people with celiac disease.
Vitamin D
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner2 stars[2 stars]
Malabsorption-induced vitamin D deficiency can lead to bone weakening in people with celiac disease. Supplementing with vitamin D may help increase bone density.
Vitamin K
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner2 stars[2 stars]
The malabsorption that occurs in celiac disease can lead to multiple nutritional deficiencies. Supplementing with vitamin K may correct a deficiency.
Zinc
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner2 stars[2 stars]
The malabsorption that occurs in celiac disease can lead to multiple nutritional deficiencies. Supplementing with zinc may correct a deficiency.
Lipase
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Lipase may be beneficial for people who do not produce adequate digestive secretions from the pancreas, a common occurrence with celiac disease.
Vitamin B6
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
For people with celiac disease who experience depression even after following a gluten-free diet, supplementing with vitamin B6 may be beneficial.

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.