In celiac disease, which gluten-containing grain must be avoided?

• A. Rice
• B. Wheat
• C. Corn
• D. Oats

Answer: (B)

In celiac disease, the immune system reacts to gluten, a protein found in certain grains. Gluten is present in wheat, barley, and rye, and exposure causes damage to the small bowel lining. Among common grains, wheat contains gluten, whereas rice and corn are naturally gluten-free, and oats are typically gluten-free but can be contaminated with gluten during processing and are sometimes tolerated only in select individuals. Therefore, the grain that must be avoided to prevent triggering the disease is wheat.