Gluten-free diet: ineffective in preventing celiac disease

In the United States, the marketing of gluten-free foods has exploded, increasing by 136% between 2013 and 2015. As detailed by researchers at Columbia University in a report remark published in the medical journal Journal of Pediatrics, more and more parents are adopting the gluten-free diet in an attempt to prevent celiac disease in their children. The American actress Gwyneth Paltrow had thus explained prohibiting pasta, rice and bread to her children. A diet that had aroused strong criticism. Faced with this gluten-free trend for children, scientists wanted to take stock of received ideas. They point out in particular that this diet is not without danger and does not prevent the appearance of celiac disease in the youngest.

Gluten-free does not prevent disease

THEhe gluten-free diet is useful for people who are allergic or intolerant to wheat. Corn “Out of concern for the health of their children, some parents impose a gluten-free diet on them, believing it to prevent celiac disease,” says Dr. Norella R.Reilly, lead author of the commentary. However, “there is no scientific evidence that a gluten-free diet is beneficial for children without a confirmed diagnosis of celiac disease, or allergy to wheat,” insists the specialist.
Celiac disease, or gluten intolerance, is an autoimmune digestive pathology that does not affect more than 1% of the population.

Dietary imbalances

Gluten-free, advocated by followers of a healthy lifestyle, actually presents health risks. As researchers at Columbia University develop, a gluten-free diet can increase calorie intake, especially from fat, and may even contribute to nutritional deficiencies. The researchers want to reassure the diet is effective in patients with celiac disease, but Dr Norella Reilly notes that parents should be educated about the nutritional consequences if they adopt this diet without developing celiac disease.