Effects of a Gluten-Free Diet on the Gut Microbiota (2024)

FAQs

Effects of a Gluten-Free Diet on the Gut Microbiota? ›

Overall, these studies show that dysbiosis of the gut microbiota seen in celiac disease patients is not fully reversed by the adoption of a gluten-free diet. In conclusion, these studies show that a gluten-free diet can cause changes in the gut microbiota, and that this could potentially be harmful.

Ultimately, avoiding processed foods is far more effective than cutting out gluten altogether. As discussed, many gluten-free products are highly-processed and can be harder to digest, less nutritional, and harmful for the gut microbiome.

However, a gluten-free diet also can cause negative side effects like increased constipation from processed snacks that contain little fiber. You also may find you are more susceptible to gluten cross-contamination.

Gluten causes significant health concerns in individuals with an intolerance or sensitivity. Research shows gluten can increase intestinal permeability, also known as leaky gut, in people with celiac disease and possibly IBS. However, this does not appear to be the case for people without these conditions.

Some people report feeling dizziness, nausea, extreme hunger and even anxiety and depression when they suddenly go from eating a lot of gluten to being gluten-free. These symptoms usually go away after a few weeks on a gluten-free diet, but talk to your health care provider if they persist.

Periodic gluten exposure does not significantly affect the gut microbiome in people with celiac disease (CeD) and non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) who are on a gluten-free diet, a recent study found.

Gluten is a structural component of wheat that may induce gut inflammation and is thus not recommended for individuals with celiac disease. Sustained exposure or abnormal continuous activation of the immune cells to such stimuli can lead to chronic inflammation.

Many people report digestive symptom improvement within a few days of dropping gluten. Fatigue and brain fog often start getting better in the first week or two. This is a gradual process, though.

It affects the small intestine – the part of the digestive system responsible for absorbing nutrients. If you have coeliac disease, eating gluten – a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and oats – causes damage to the lining of your small intestine. It also causes inflammation in other parts of your body.

FAQs about gluten intolerance symptoms

The intestines make up most of the middle and lower abdomen, so “gluten belly” will look like any other type of lower digestive tract bloating. However, if bloating seems to be a regular or constant problem, that's a possible sign that it may be due to gluten intolerance.

Can you reverse gluten damage? ›

There's no cure for gluten intolerance. But most people find relief from symptoms by following a gluten-free diet. You should work with your healthcare provider and a dietitian to plan your diet.

After you stop eating foods with gluten, your symptoms will likely get better in a few days to weeks. Your small intestine should heal completely in 3 to 6 months. In some cases, it can take longer for full healing, even though you may feel better. Your villi will be back and working again.

Individuals with celiac disease experience inflammation in the small intestine after eating gluten. This damages your gut lining and leads to poor nutrient absorption, resulting in significant digestive discomfort and frequent diarrhea or constipation ( 3 ).

A gluten-free diet is based on the products which have a high glycemic index and are devoid of dietary fiber. These foods contain many simple carbohydrates and fats. These factors can give rise to nutritional deficiencies, constipation, and the development of the metabolic syndrome [82].

Another thing to keep in mind is that gluten-free foods are generally higher in starch and lower in fiber. This can cause problems for some with symptoms such as constipation, gas and bloating.

Vitamin D, iron, B vitamins, calcium, zinc, copper, and vitamins A, E, and K. are often low on a gluten-free diet. But, many healthcare providers do not test for vitamin deficiencies. Because of this, people are taking it upon themselves to prevent the possibility of low vitamin levels.

A gluten-free diet is also popular among people who haven't been diagnosed with a gluten-related medical condition. The claimed benefits of the diet are improved health, weight loss and increased energy, but more research is needed.

Many people report digestive symptom improvement within a few days of dropping gluten. Fatigue and brain fog often start getting better in the first week or two. This is a gradual process, though.

Gluten-free diets may improve symptoms such as abdominal pain, stool consistency, and tiredness, and they can be recommended to patients with IBS. (Strength of Recommendation: B, based on inconsistent, small, randomized controlled trials [RCTs].)

Bottom Line. Although a gluten-free diet is the primary treatment for celiac disease and may help to alleviate symptoms in various conditions related to gluten sensitivity, there is currently no evidence showing that a gluten-free diet is effective for weight loss or for general health benefits.