Unit 1: Understanding Celiac Disease

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency means that the pancreas fails to make enough of the enzymes that are needed to break down food during digestion. The result is that nutrients cannot be absorbed properly. Endocrine pancreatic insufficiency means that the pancreas doesn't produce enough of the hormone insulin, which helps cells to use sugar as energy source.

An infectious agent that can produce disease, e.g. a virus or a bacterium.

Are protein fragments.

Parts per million. It equals the unit mg/kg.

Is the birth of a baby at fewer than 37 weeks gestational age.

One of the three macronutrients used as energy sources (calories) by the body. Proteins are complex organic compounds, made up of chains of amino acids.

Is an autoimmune disease characterized by red, itchy and scaly patches of skin. These patches may only cover certain parts or even the whole body. It is thought to be a genetic disease triggered by envrionmental factors, e.g. medication or stress. There is no cure, but the symptoms can be controlled.