Is Gluten Really the Culprit in Gluten Sensitivity?

Is Gluten Really To Blame for “Gluten” Sensitivity?

By Amy Burkhart MD, RD

FODMAP Intolerance May Be At Fault

Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity is poorly understood and no valid test currently exists to diagnose it. A 2013 study questioned whether or not gluten was really the cause of symptoms in gluten-sensitive individuals who did not have celiac disease. The culprit for the “gluten-sensitivity” didn’t appear to be gluten at all. The blame went to FODMAPS, an abbreviation for fermentable, oligo, di, monosaccharides, and polyols. These are particular types of carbohydrates found in some foods such as apples, watermelon, onions, garlic, and wheat. These carbohydrates are not well- absorbed, and in many people, create symptoms such as gas, bloating, diarrhea, depression, joint pain, and fatigue.

Small Study-Important Findings

The study looked at 37 people with non-celiac gluten sensitivity and IBS. Celiac disease had been ruled out as a cause of symptoms. When all 37 people were taken off of food that contained FODMAPS, they improved significantly. When they reintroduced only gluten and not the other FODMAP foods, only 8% of the 37 people with “Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity” actually reacted to gluten.

 

Are we looking at the wrong culprit in non-celiac gluten sensitivity?

At present, non-celiac gluten sensitivity is still not well defined. It is currently diagnosed when a person has symptoms after eating gluten, and celiac disease has been ruled out as the cause. There is no validated test for non-celiac gluten sensitivity; it is currently what we call “a clinical diagnosis.” This means it is diagnosed based on symptoms rather than an actual lab test. It is difficult to create a test for diagnosis when the mechanism and pathology of the disease aren’t known.. Since we have no test, and one of the FODMAP foods is wheat, are we being fooled? Is the real issue the carbohydrate and not the gluten?

 

Symptoms of IBS, FODMAP Intolerance, Celiac Disease and Lactose Intolerance are similar

The symptoms of FODMAP intolerance can be easily confused with the symptoms of IBS, celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, and lactose intolerance. Research shows a high percentage of people with IBS to be sensitive to foods containing FODMAP carbohydrates. Could an intolerance to FODMAP- containing foods be the cause of some cases of non-celiac gluten sensitivity?

 

The Low FODMAP diet is here to stay

The Low FODMAP diet is now the primary dietary intervention for IBS. There is currently no test for FODMAP intolerance. Proper implementation of the diet followed by symptom improvement is an indication of  FODMAP intolerance. Due to this fact, it is imperative that the diet is done correctly to determine the presence or absence of FODMAP intolerance. I recommend you consult a dietitian familiar with the low FODMAP diet. Doing it without guidance is difficult.  Low FODMAP product lines and food delivery services catering to those on the Low FODMAP diet are now available.

 

The link between these carbohydrates and symptoms is now well accepted and the Low FODMAP diet a relief for many. Following is a list of valuable resources for anyone interested in learning more about a Low FODMAP diet.

 

 

Recommended resources for a low FODMAP diet:

1.  Monash University Low Fodmap App for I-phone and Android: http://www.med.monash.edu/cecs/gastro/fodmap/iphone-app.html

2.  Monash University Website: http://www.med.monash.edu/cecs/gastro/fodmap/  The leaders in research and information on the low FODMAP diet

3.  http://www.ibsfree.net/- Patsy Catsos, RD- Fantastic website with information on following a low FODMAP diet

4.  http://www.pinterest.com/pcatsos/ Pinterest site with photos of low FODMAP products

5.  http://blog.katescarlata.com/  Kate Scarlata, RD  A terrific blog with recipes and information on a low FODMAP diet

6. https://theceliacmd.com/is-gluten-culprit-in-gluten-sensitivity/ An explanation of the study that discusses the role of FODMAPS in gluten sensitivity

7. Book: A great consumer friendly, resource for anyone on a LOW FODMAP Diet. Written by Dr. Sue Shepard and Peter Gibson from Monash University

THIS ARTICLE IS COPYRIGHTED BY AMY BURKHART, MD, RD.