Understanding The Gluten-Free Diet And The Lesser-Known Downsides

Reduced Heart Health Benefits

Recent research suggests gluten-free diets could have reduced heart health benefits for individuals without celiac disease. In fact, some studies have concluded these diets may actually increase an individual's risk of cardiovascular disease if they do not have celiac disease. An observational study conducted by Dr. Andrew Chan followed more than 100,000 patients between 1986 and 2010. The study participants completed food questionnaires every four years. After adjusting for refined grain intake, researchers concluded the participants who consumed the lowest amount of gluten had a fifteen percent increase in the risk of heart disease compared to those who ate the highest amount of gluten. Patients should discuss their personal risk of cardiovascular disease with their doctor before deciding to adopt a gluten-free diet. Individuals who follow a gluten-free diet are encouraged to maintain a healthy weight, avoid smoking, and control their blood pressure to reduce their risk of heart issues.