The risks of gluten allergies have been underestimated, according to a study published Tuesday which found increased mortality rates among people with celiac disease. Celiac disease is triggered by exposure to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. Found in about one percent of the Western population, it damages the small intestines and interferes with the absorption of nutrients from food.Using data taken from biopsies taken between July 1969 and February 2008 in Sweden, researchers were able to examine the overall risk of death in individuals with celiac disease and digestive inflammation and compare it to the general population. They found the risk of death was "modestly increased."
"Until recently, gluten sensitivity has received little attention in the traditional medical literature, although there is increasing evidence for its presence in patients with various neurological disorders and psychiatric problems," Peter Green of Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons wrote in an accompanying editorial.
The risk of death was highest in the first year of follow-up but decreased with age at diagnosis, with risk being higher for those diagnosed before age 20.
