Gluten Cheating and Depression

Question
Hi Dr.

Is there any medical research on gluten and depression?  I was told I need to stay off gluten indefinetly but am not happy about it.  I also suffer from depression and take medication for it.  I was wondering if there really is a strong "Medical" link between the two illnesses.  If there is, I will cease to eat gluten.  Please advise.

Thank You,

Chaim Bochner

Answer
Hello

The most recent published research on this topic indicates that there is indeed a "gluten intolerance"-depression connection; however the precise nature and mechanism of that connection is yet to be firmly established.

Available scientific evidence (most recent publication November of last year) supports the idea that while persons with celiac disease (gluten intolerant) ARE more likely to suffer from depression than the general ("healthy") population, they are NOT more likely to suffer from depressive symptoms than the population of persons with other physical illnesses.

In practical terms, this suggests that the "gluten intolerance"-"depression" connection is mediated through something other than a direct cause-and-effect relationship, but the connection IS nonetheless real.

If I were you I would heed the advice given you by medical professionals to stay off the gluten. It does have a sound scientific basis.

There are now many types of gluten-free foods to choose from and many more being added all the time.

Good luck to you.

1. Prev:margerine sensitive?
2. Next:eating raw meat