Celiac Disease and Depression
There are a number of studies indicating that people who suffer from celiac disease (a specific form of gluten intolerance) are more likely to experience some form of clinical depression than people without this frustrating problem. However, we do not yet understand the specifics behind this phenomenon.
While many assume it is probably related to the tendency for undiagnosed celiacs to suffer from malabsorption and thus malnutrition, there could be other factors as well. Your body’s amplified immune response to certain proteins and amino acids could also trigger hormonal side-effects.
This is not established as an accepted fact yet, but it is one of many theories bandied about as researchers attempt to solve the mystery of this celiac depression.
It is also possible that it is a cultural, functional issue. I have known many people who become frustrated and upset when they learn they have to eliminate so many common foods from their diet. The struggle to adapt to a gluten-free diet could itself lead to some forms of depression.
I hope we learn some more established facts soon so the many celiac sufferers out there don’t have to deal with a disproportionately high potential for experiencing depression.
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