In a recent post we talked about leaky gut and the effects it has on so many different parts of the body.  This new study from the American Journal of Cardiology shows a significantly higher risk of coronary artery disease in the Celiac population compared to control.  Studies like this show the link between persistent inflammation in the body and the negative effects it has on our health.

One of the biggest challenges associated with Celiac Disease or gluten sensitivity in general is diagnoses, a vast majority of suffers go  undiagnosed until age 60.(1)  As with any sensitivity the longer the exposure the worse the condition becomes.  Prevalence of autoimmune disorders associated with Celiac Disease is related to duration of exposure to gluten. (2)  In a study in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology they found a  whopping 43.3% of subjects with Celiac Disease presented with Thyroid Involvement(Hashimotos).  Shifting from the heart and thyroid to the brain we see 70% of children with untreated Celiac Disease show exactly the same abnormal brain wave patterns as those who have been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder. (3) The change in blood flow as a result of the persistent inflammation can even lead to lesions in the brain. (4)

We can spend a great deal of time reviewing previous studies but it still comes back to a few things.  First how do we decrease our persistent inflammation?  Second, how do I know if I am sensitive to a food?  Third what do I do?

Persistent inflammation comes from poor diet, life style, exercise, sleep, elimination, and stress.   Just making the switch to whole foods with lots of fruits and vegetables can quickly reduce inflammation in the intestines and start you on the road to feeling better.  Learning if you are sensitive to a food is as simple as eliminating it for a period of time and then bringing it back into your diet.  General guideline, one thing at a time and 8 weeks before re-introducing.  It has to be a complete elimination, reducing doesn’t cut it and won’t do you any good.  If you are going to do it, do it!  If you want some assistance with these ideas give us a call we can do a consultation and see where a good place to start may be for you.

It’s a new day for health!

Dr. Seth Nelson

Rising Sun Chiropractic

1. BMJ 205;330;739-40

2.Gastroenterology 1999;117:297-303

3. Dangerous Grains

Pediatrics Vol.108 No. 2, Aug 2001