Gluten-Free Diet Can Deprive Women of Crucial Nutrition

Celiac.com 02/22/2023 - When people with celiac disease consume wheat or gluten, they typically suffer damage to the lining of the small intestine, along with associated symptoms of the damage, including nutritional deficiencies. 

Most women with celiac disease follow a gluten-free diet. But, we still don't know very much about the potential long-term impact of a gluten-free diet on the nutritional, body composition, and other factors in women with celiac disease.

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To better understand the issue, a team of researchers took a closer look at this issue. The team studied a group of just over fifty adult Saudi females with celiac disease, all of whom had followed a gluten-free diet for more than one year. The study included a complete analysis of anthropometric data, levels of vitamins B12 and D, and a complete blood count.

Even though it's a small study, the results are concerning. That's because all of the patients were deficient in micro and macro-nutrients, including vitamin D, folate, calcium, and iron. Moreover, nearly half of the patients had reduced total body fat, while nearly two out of three had decreased levels of visceral fat. 

We already know that most adult celiacs suffer from micronutrient deficiencies. We also have a good idea of which deficiencies are the most common.

The team's findings echo those of earlier studies, which have shown that gluten-free foods often have poorer nutritional quality than similar non-gluten-free foods. This means that people with celiac disease who follow a gluten-free diet may be at risk for poor nutrition or malnutrition.

To ensure proper nutrition for people with celiac disease, especially women, it's important to remain extra vigilant about getting food with enough nutrition, fiber, and other essential nutrients to promote good health. This may include working with a dietitian or nutritionist to create a well-balanced meal plan, and supplementing with vitamins and minerals, as needed. 

Women with celiac disease who are following a gluten-free diet, and those who care for them, should take this study seriously, share it with your doctor or nutritionist, and take steps to make sure they remain healthy.

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