The Connection Between Celiac Disease and Bone Loss in Older Adults

Why bones suffer when the gut is inflamed

Celiac disease is an immune reaction to gluten that can present quietly in older adults. Inflammation flattens intestinal villi, which reduces absorption of calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium. Inflammatory cytokines also accelerate bone turnover. The combination leads to osteopenia or osteoporosis, sometimes discovered after a low impact fracture.

Test the gut and the skeleton together

Start with tissue transglutaminase IgA plus total IgA to screen for IgA deficiency. If positive or highly suggestive, confirm with endoscopy and multiple small bowel biopsies. At the same time, obtain a DEXA baseline and labs for 25 hydroxyvitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, parathyroid hormone, iron studies, B12, folate, and thyroid function. If fracture risk is high, you can discuss with the medical team of senior apartments about medications that slow resorption or support formation while intestinal healing begins.

Make nutrition precise and sustainable

A strict gluten free pattern is non negotiable. Hidden gluten appears in sauces, gravies, spice blends, processed meats, medications, and some supplements. Build a safe pantry around naturally gluten free staples like rice, quinoa, corn tortillas, beans, lentils, potatoes, dairy or fortified plant milks, eggs, fruits, and vegetables. Choose breads and pastas from brands that batch test and certify gluten free. Daily bone targets matter: about 1200 mg calcium from food plus supplements if needed, vitamin D in the 30 to 50 ng/mL range, and protein at roughly 1.0 to 1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight if kidneys allow.

Train for density and balance

Weight bearing activity and progressive resistance stimulate bone. Add balance practice to reduce falls. In retirement communities a simple rotation of walking, stair climbing, light weights or bands, and tai chi covers most needs. After fractures or if pain limits movement, ask for a physical therapy plan that respects other conditions.

Keep dining safe in shared settings

Use separate toasters and boards at home and ask restaurants about dedicated fryers and prep areas. In communal environments, advocate for labeled stations and trained staff. Teams in independent living Phoenix often standardize routines that reduce cross contact for residents who need assistance. Recheck antibodies and vitamin D at intervals and repeat DEXA on schedule. As absorption improves, energy, digestion, and bone stability follow.