Which condition requires a patient to strictly avoid gluten?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that specifically requires individuals to avoid gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When someone with celiac disease consumes gluten, it triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine's lining, impairing nutrient absorption and leading to various gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms. Therefore, avoiding gluten is crucial for managing the condition, as even small amounts can cause significant health issues and symptoms in patients.

In contrast, while diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, and lactose intolerance may involve dietary restrictions, they do not necessitate the complete avoidance of gluten. Diabetic patients may need to monitor carbohydrate intake, including those from gluten-containing foods, but they can usually include gluten in their diet as long as it's balanced. Likewise, individuals with irritable bowel syndrome may have specific food sensitivities but do not universally need to eliminate gluten. Finally, lactose intolerance involves the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy, rather than gluten.