What effect does gluten have on the intestines of a client with celiac's disease?

Clients with celiac disease experience a severe immune reaction to gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When individuals with celiac disease consume gluten, it triggers an inappropriate immune response that leads to the destruction of the intestinal lining, particularly affecting the villi. The villi are small, finger-like projections in the intestines that are crucial for nutrient absorption. When these structures are damaged or flattened, it impairs the absorption of nutrients, leading to malnutrition and a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms.

The destruction of the intestinal lining not only affects digestion but can also lead to long-term complications if the individual continues to consume gluten. This is why strict adherence to a gluten-free diet is essential for managing celiac disease and promoting healing of the intestinal lining. The other options do not accurately represent the harmful effects gluten has on the intestines in individuals with this condition.