Challenges of Monitoring the Gluten-Free Diet Adherence in the Management and Follow-Up of Patients with Celiac Disease

Transfer of celiac disease-associated immunogenic gluten peptides in breast milk: variability in kinetics of secretion

Background

Exposure to antigens is crucial for child immune system development, aiding disease prevention and promoting infant health. Some common food antigen proteins are found in human breast milk. However, it is unclear whether gluten antigens linked to celiac disease (CD) are transmitted through breast milk, potentially impacting the development of the infant's immune system.

Objective

This study aimed to analyze the passage of gluten immunogenic peptides (GIP) into human breast milk. We evaluated the dynamics of GIP secretion after lactating mothers adopted a controlled gluten-rich diet.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 96 non-CD and 23 CD lactating mothers, assessing total proteins and casein in breast milk, and GIP levels in breast milk and urine. Subsequently, a longitudinal study was conducted in a subgroup of 12 non-CD lactating mothers who adopted a controlled gluten-rich diet. GIP levels in breast milk and urine samples were assayed by multiple sample collections over 96 hours.

Results

Analysis of a single sample revealed that 24% of non-CD lactating mothers on a regular unrestricted diet tested positive for GIP in breast milk, and 90% tested positive in urine, with significantly lower concentrations in breast milk. Nevertheless, on a controlled gluten-rich diet and the collection of multiple samples, GIP were detected in 75% and 100% of non-CD participants in breast milk and urine, respectively. The transfer dynamics in breast milk samples were long-enduring and GIP secretion persisted from 0 to 72 h. In contrast, GIP secretion in urine samples was limited to the first 24 h, with inter-individual variations. In the cohort of CD mothers, 82.6% and 87% tested negative for GIP in breast milk and urine, respectively.

Conclusions

This study definitively established the presence of GIP in breast milk, with substantial inter-individual variations in secretion dynamics. Our findings provide insights into distinct GIP kinetics observed in sequentially collected breast milk and urine samples, suggesting differential gluten metabolism patterns depending on the organ or system involved. Future research is essential to understand whether GIP functions as sensitizing or tolerogenic agents in the immune system of breastfed infants.

Evolution in coeliac disease diagnosis and management

The traditional gut-centric view of coeliac disease is evolving as immune and genetic insights underscore the central importance of a systemic, T cell immune response to gluten in disease pathogenesis. As the field increasingly recognize the limitations of small intestinal histology as the diagnostic standard, data supporting the accuracy of an immune (serologic) diagnosis of coeliac disease - well demonstrated in children - are growing for adults. Novel biomarkers such as interleukin-2 that identify the gluten-specific T cell demonstrate high sensitivity and specificity for coeliac disease and offer the potential for a diagnostic approach that avoids the need for gluten challenge. Asymptomatic disease and manifestations outside the gut pose considerable challenges for diagnosis using a case-finding strategy and enthusiasm for population screening is growing. The gluten-free diet remains a highly restrictive treatment and there is a paucity of controlled data to inform a safe gluten intake threshold. Ongoing symptoms and enteropathy are common and require systematic evaluation. Slowly-responsive disease is prevalent in the older patient diagnosed with coeliac disease, and super-sensitivity to gluten is an emerging concept that may explain many cases of nonresponsive disease. While there is great interest in developing novel therapies for coeliac disease, no drug has yet been registered. Efficacy studies are generally assessing drugs in patients with treated coeliac disease who undergo gluten challenge or in patients with nonresponsive disease; however, substantial questions remain around specific endpoints relevant for patients, clinicians and regulatory agencies and optimal trial design. Novel immune tools are providing informative readouts for clinical trials and are now shaping their design.

Outcome in pediatric celiac disease is independent of the diagnostic approach in patients with high antibody levels

OBJECTIVES

European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) guidelines enable the diagnosis of celiac disease (CD) without biopsies in patients with immunoglobulin A (IgA)-antibodies against tissue transglutaminase (TGA-IgA) ≥ 10× the upper limit of normal (ULN) and positivity of endomysial antibodies in a second blood sample. Limited data exist comparing the biopsy versus the nonbiopsy diagnostic approach regarding long-term outcomes in CD patients. Our study aimed to investigate the influence of the diagnostic approach on adherence to gluten-free diet (GFD), serological remission (defined as normalization of TGA-IgA during follow-up (FU)) and clinical remission in CD patients with TGA-IgA ≥ 10× ULN.

METHODS

Retrospective multicenter study. Patients with CD and TGA-IgA ≥ 10× ULN at diagnosis were included in the study. Patients with confirmed diagnosis by biopsy were compared to patients diagnosed by nonbiopsy approach using univariate analysis, Kaplan-Meier survival curve, and logistic regression models.

RESULTS

A total of 282 CD patients (192 [68.1%] in the biopsy group; 90 [31.9%] in the nonbiopsy group) were analyzed. The median time to normalization of TGA-IgA was 16.5 months [interquartile range, IQR: 13, 28] in the biopsy and 15 months [IQR: 12, 26] in the nonbiopsy group; p = 0.14). Rates of normalized TGA-IgA at first to third-year FU were comparable between both groups. Adherence to GFD did not seem to be influenced by the diagnostic approach.

CONCLUSIONS

The nonbiopsy approach is not inferior to the biopsy approach in terms of adherence to GFD and serological remission in patients with CD.

Development and Validation of a Tool for Assessing Adherence to Gluten-Free Diet in Patients With Celiac Disease

INTRODUCTION

Life-long adherence to gluten-free diet (GFD) and its assessment is essential for patients with celiac disease (CeD). We have developed and validated a tool for assessing adherence to GFD which can be used by both physicians and dietitians.

METHODS

Phase 1: Development, content validation, and assessment of reliability of tool. Phase 2: Validation of tool against standard dietary evaluation (SDE) (gold standard), immunoglobulin A - anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies (IgA anti-tTG Ab), and gluten immunogenic peptides in urine. Overall, 380 biopsy-confirmed patients with CeD (derivation cohort: n = 100 [phase 1], n = 210 [phase 2] and independent validation cohort, n = 70) were recruited.

RESULTS

Of an initial 90-point questionnaire, 84 items (Celiac Disease: Compliance Assessment Test [CD-CAT.v1]) were retained after content validation and pilot testing. In phase 1, upon administering CD-CAT.v1 on 100 patients, a comprehensive 35-item tool (CD-CAT.v2; α = 0.86) was obtained after removing items with low test-retest reliability and item-rest correlation values. In phase 2, upon administering CD-CAT.v2 on 210 patients, 22 items were removed having low correlation values (R < 0.4) with SDE. Finally, a 13-item tool (CD-CAT.v3; α = 0.84) was obtained with high criterion validity with SDE ( r = 0.806, P < 0.001), moderate convergent validity with celiac disease adherence test ( r = 0.602, P = 0.007), and moderate to weak correlation with urine gluten immunogenic peptides ( r = 0.46, P = 0.001) and IgA anti-tTG Ab ( r = 0.39, P = 0.008), respectively. The final 13-item tool also strongly correlated with SDE ( r = 0.78, P < 0.001) in an independent validation cohort of 70 patients with CeD. Principal component analysis identified 3 relevant subscales with a cumulative variance of 62%. The sensitivity and specificity of CD-CAT.v3 were 80% and 91%, respectively, with an area under curve of 0.905 with SDE. The obtained cutoff score of <19 from the receiver operating characteristic curve was further categorized as 13 = excellent, 14-18 = very good, 19-28 = average, and >28 = poor adherence to GFD.

DISCUSSION

CD-CAT is a new and rapid tool for monitoring dietary adherence to GFD with high sensitivity and specificity, which can be administered by both physicians and dietitians.

Celiac Disease, Gluten-Free Diet and Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease

Celiac disease (CD) is a chronic autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten-containing food by genetically predisposed individuals. Hence, treatment of CD consists of permanent avoidance of wheat, rye, barley, and other gluten-containing foods. Lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD) improves the symptoms of CD, but recent evidence suggests it is also associated with a higher risk for hepatic steatosis and the coexistence or emergence of other cardiometabolic risk factors. Moreover, a higher risk for liver steatosis is also reported by some authors as a potential extraintestinal complication of the CD itself. Recent nomenclature changes designate the association between hepatic steatosis and at least one of five cardiometabolic risk factors as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). An extended network of potentially causative factors underlying the association between MAFLD and CD, before and after dietary therapy is implemented, was recently described. The individualized treatment of these patients is less supported by evidence, with most of the current recommendations relying on empiric clinical judgment. This review focuses on the causative associations between CD and hepatic injury, either as an extraintestinal manifestation of CD or a side effect of GFD, also referring to potential therapeutic strategies for these individuals.

Fecal calprotectin in pediatric gastrointestinal diseases: Pros and cons

BACKGROUND

Fecal calprotectin is a valuable biomarker for assessing intestinal inflammation in pediatric gastrointestinal diseases. However, its role, pros, and cons in various conditions must be comprehensively elucidated.

AIM

To explore the role of fecal calprotectin in pediatric gastrointestinal diseases, including its advantages and limitations.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed, PubMed Central, Google Scholar, and other scientific research engines until February 24, 2024. The review included 88 research articles, 56 review articles, six meta-analyses, two systematic reviews, two consensus papers, and two letters to the editors.

RESULTS

Fecal calprotectin is a non-invasive marker for detecting intestinal inflammation and monitoring disease activity in pediatric conditions such as functional gastrointestinal disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease, coronavirus disease 2019-induced gastrointestinal disorders, gastroenteritis, and cystic fibrosis-associated intestinal pathology. However, its lack of specificity and susceptibility to various confounding factors pose challenges in interpretation. Despite these limitations, fecal calprotectin offers significant advantages in diagnosing, monitoring, and managing pediatric gastrointestinal diseases.

CONCLUSION

Fecal calprotectin holds promise as a valuable tool in pediatric gastroenterology, offering insights into disease activity, treatment response, and prognosis. Standardized protocols and guidelines are needed to optimize its clinical utility and mitigate interpretation challenges. Further research is warranted to address the identified limitations and enhance our understanding of fecal calprotectin in pediatric gastrointestinal diseases.

Associations between Celiac Disease, Extra-Gastrointestinal Manifestations, and Gluten-Free Diet: A Narrative Overview

Millions of children and adults worldwide suffer from undiagnosed and untreated celiac disease (CeD). The clinical picture of CeD is highly heterogeneous and comprises manifestations that can affect almost the whole body. This narrative overview is aimed at characterizing diseases and complaints that are associated with unrecognized CeD and that frequently involve sites other than the gastrointestinal (G.I.) tract, i.e., dental, otorhinolaryngological, and ocular complications; skin and hair abnormalities; afflictions of the bones, joints, and muscles; cardiovascular affectations; kidney diseases; neuro-psychiatric disorders; and gynecological-obstetrical manifestations. The association between CeD and extra-GI manifestations is frequently overlooked, which leads to a delay in diagnosis. Most CeD-mediated disorders can be treated with a strict gluten-free diet (GFD), but some of them are irreversible unless CeD is diagnosed in time. Some manifestations can be classified as risk factors for CeD, and CeD screening tests for affected patients should be selectively considered. Apart from gastroenterologists, specialists in other medical disciplines can play an important role in identifying people with unrecognized CeD and may help prevent its progress and long-term complications. Further comprehensive investigations are necessary to clarify the pathogenesis of extra-GI manifestations and the effect of a GFD.

Celiac disease: Hope for new treatments beyond a gluten-free diet

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Celiac disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the small intestine induced and maintained by gluten ingestion in susceptible individuals. Current treatment consists of strict adherence to a lifelong gluten-free diet (GFD) which is considered safe and effective in the large majority of patients. However, since adherence to a GFD is difficult and has a negative impact on quality of life, an increasing interest in other treatment options has emerged. Moreover, in some individuals a GFD is not sufficiently effective, necessitating alternative treatments.

METHODS

By performing a systematic search, we constructed a detailed narrative review. Only treatment options considered relevant and conducted in a phase I, II or III clinical trial were included.

RESULTS

Based on the pathophysiology of CD, four major therapeutic approaches can be distinguished: firstly, by focusing on intraluminal gluten detoxification before absorption occurs, secondly, by modulating intestinal permeability and preventing paracellular uptake, thirdly, by enhancing immunological tolerance to gluten and finally, by regulating gluten auto-immunity.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite significant efforts, no treatment has yet completed a phase III clinical trial. Future studies will likely focus on the use of supplemental drugs in conjunction to a GFD, with ALV003 and ZED-1227 currently being the most promising therapeutic options.

Utilizing Telemedicine Applications in Celiac Disease and Other Gluten-Free-Diet-Dependent Conditions: Insights from the COVID-19 Pandemic

BACKGROUND

Globally, approximately 1.4% of people have celiac disease (CD), induced by gluten sensitivity. If left untreated, it causes small intestinal inflammation and villous atrophy, which can result in failure to thrive, anemia, osteoporosis, malabsorption, and even malignancy. The only treatment option available is a gluten-free diet (GFD). Few studies have looked at the role and perception of telehealth in relation to CD and selective nutrition both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

AIM

Our goal was to screen and investigate the research conducted both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic concerning the utilization of telehealth applications and solutions in CD and other GFD-dependent circumstances.

METHODS

We employed a narrative review approach to explore articles that were published in scholarly journals or organizations between the years 2000 and 2024. Only English-language publications were included. PubMed and Google Scholar searches were mainly conducted using the following keywords: telemedicine, telehealth, telecare, eHealth, m-health, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, celiac disease, and gluten-free diet (GFD). Manual searches of the references in the acquired literature were also carried out, along with the authors' own personal contributions of their knowledge and proficiency in this field.

RESULTS

Only a few studies conducted prior to the COVID-19 outbreak examined the viewpoints and experiences of adult patients with CD with relation to in-person clinic visits, as well as other options such as telehealth. The majority of patients believed that phone consultations were appropriate and beneficial. Video conferencing and telemedicine became more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the effectiveness of using these technologies for CD on a global basis. In recent years, urine assays for gluten identification have become accessible for use at home. These tests could be helpful for CD monitoring with telemedicine assistance.

CONCLUSIONS

The extended knowledge gathered from the COVID-19 pandemic is expected to complement pre-COVID-19 data supporting the usefulness of telemedicine even after the emergent pandemic, encouraging its wider adoption in standard clinical practice. The monitoring and follow-up of CD patients and other GFD-dependent conditions can greatly benefit from telemedicine.

Potential therapeutic options for celiac Disease: An update on Current evidence from Gluten-Free diet to cell therapy

Celiac disease (CD) is a chronic autoimmune enteropathy and multifactorial disease caused by inappropriate immune responses to gluten in the small intestine. Weight loss, anemia, osteoporosis, arthritis, and hepatitis are among the extraintestinal manifestations of active CD. Currently, a strict lifelong gluten-free diet (GFD) is the only safe, effective, and available treatment. Despite the social burden, high expenses, and challenges of following a GFD, 2 to 5 percent of patients do not demonstrate clinical or pathophysiological improvement. Therefore, we need novel and alternative therapeutic approaches for patients. Innovative approaches encompass a broad spectrum of strategies, including enzymatic degradation of gluten, inhibition of intestinal permeability, modulation of the immune response, inhibition of the transglutaminase 2 (TG2) enzyme, blocking antigen presentation by HLA-DQ2/8, and induction of tolerance. Hence, this review is focused on comprehensive therapeutic strategies ranging from dietary approaches to novel methods such as antigen-based immunotherapy, cell and gene therapy, and the usage of nanoparticles for CD treatment.

Gluten-Free Diet and Other Celiac Disease Therapies: Current Understanding and Emerging Strategies

A lifelong gluten-free diet (GFD) is the only treatment for celiac disease and other gluten-related disorders. Nevertheless, strict adherence to the GFD is often challenging due to concerns about social isolation, risk of gluten contaminations, high cost, poor quality and the taste of gluten-free products. Moreover, although the GFD is effective in achieving mucosal healing, it may lead to dietary imbalances due to nutrient deficiencies over a long period of time. To overcome these issues, several gluten-free wheat flours have been developed to create products that closely resemble their gluten-containing counterparts. Furthermore, given the critical importance of adhering to the GFD, it becomes essential to promote adherence and monitor possible voluntary or involuntary transgressions. Various methods, including clinical assessment, questionnaires, serology for celiac disease, duodenal biopsies and the detection of Gluten Immunogenic Peptides (GIPs) are employed for this purpose, but none are considered entirely satisfactory. Since adherence to the GFD poses challenges, alternative therapies should be implemented in the coming years to improve treatment efficacy and the quality of life of patients with celiac disease. The aim of this narrative review is to explore current knowledge of the GFD and investigate its future perspectives, focusing on technology advancements, follow-up strategies and insights into a rapidly changing future.

Preparation and Immunochemical Characterization of a Water-Soluble Gluten Peptide Fraction for Improving the Diagnosis of Celiac Disease

The diagnosis of celiac disease (CD) is complex and requires a multi-step procedure (symptoms, serology, duodenal biopsy, effect of a gluten-free diet, and optional genetic). The aim of the study was to contribute to the improvement of CD diagnosis by preparing a water-soluble gluten peptide fraction (called Solgluten) and by selecting gluten-specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) for the detection of gluten immunogenic gluten peptides (GIPs) in urine and blood serum spiked with Solgluten. Food-grade Solgluten was prepared by the extraction of a peptic digest of vital gluten with water, centrifugation, and freeze-drying. The process was relatively easy, repeatable, and cheap. The content of gliadin-derived GIPs was 491 mg/g. Solgluten was used as antigenic material to compare two competitive ELISA kits (R7021 and K3012) and two sandwich ELISA kits (M2114 and R7041) in their quality regarding the quantitation of GIPs in urine and blood serum. The quality parameters were the reactivity, sensitivity, coefficients of variation and determination, and curve shape. The evaluation of the kits showed a number of discrepancies in individual quality parameters measured in urine and serum. Due to the lowest limit of quantitation and the highest coefficient of determination, M2114 may be the first choice, while R7021 appeared to be less suitable because of the high coefficients of variation and unfavorable curve progression. The results set the stage for improving CD diagnosis by supplementing conventional blood tests with oral provocation with Solgluten and subsequent ELISA measurement of GIPs that could support the no-biopsy approach and by better assessing the effect of a gluten-free diet by monitoring adherence to the diet by measuring GIPs in urine and blood.

Celiac Disease Dietary Adherence on the Rural-Urban Continuum

Poor adherence to a gluten-free diet for those with celiac disease is a well-established risk factor, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms, malabsorption of nutrients, and psychiatric complications. Previous studies have shown that those outside urban areas encounter unique barriers to dietary adherence and are less likely to engage in health management behaviors than those in urban regions. This study aimed to examine the relationship between gluten-free dietary adherence and individual, relationship, and community factors, including the geographic location of residence on the rural-urban continuum, for 253 adults with celiac disease living in the United States. Those with celiac disease residing in urban regions had significantly better dietary adherence than those residing in nonurban areas (p < 0.05). Those living in nonurban communities had, on average, poor enough adherence scores to suggest ongoing intestinal damage from gluten consumption. Geographic location, age, years since diagnosis, and annual income significantly predicted compliance with a gluten-free diet for those with celiac disease, accounting for nearly 20% of the variance. Those living outside urban areas with a lower income, younger age, and more recent diagnosis of celiac disease had the worst dietary adherence, placing them at the most risk for ongoing disease progression and complications.

A dietitian-led coeliac service helps to identify and reduce involuntary gluten ingestion with subsequent reduction in the frequency of repeat endoscopies

BACKGROUND

Dietitian-led coeliac clinics have the potential to be a cost-effective way of monitoring patients living with coeliac disease (CD). The aim of this service evaluation was to explore the impact of a dietitian-led coeliac clinic on gluten-free diet (GFD) adherence and the frequency of endoscopies with repeat duodenal biopsies.

METHODS

Adults with biopsy-proven CD were transferred to a new dietitian-led coeliac clinic where data were collected from medical records and analysed using SPSS. GFD adherence was assessed by a specialist dietitian, specialist nurse, consultant gastroenterologists and a validated GFD adherence questionnaire. Repeat duodenal biopsy findings were compared with the most recent dietitian GFD adherence assessment. Project and ethics approval was granted by the hospital trust and affiliated university.

RESULTS

Data from 170 patients (White: 51%, South Asian: 45%) are presented, with most being 35-64 years old (61%). Specialist dietitian assessments identified 67 (39%) of patients were adhering to the GFD, whereas prior gastroenterologist or coeliac nurse assessments identified 122 (72%) (p < 0.001) and the validated GFD adherence questionnaire identified 97 (57%) (p < 0.001). Dietitian assessments identified involuntary gluten consumption in 39/104 (38%) of those who self-reported GFD adherence, consequently avoiding the need for nine endoscopies with repeat duodenal biopsies once patients had received dietary education from the dietitian. On follow-up, within the dietitian-led coeliac clinic, significantly fewer patients consumed gluten involuntarily (14%, p < 0.001). In addition, a reduction in voluntary gluten consumption was observed from three to five to one to two times per month (p < 0.001) in 66 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The dietitian-led coeliac clinic helped to identify involuntary gluten ingestion, avoid repeat endoscopies with duodenal biopsies and was associated with significantly improved GFD adherence.

The Gluten-Free Diet for Celiac Disease: Critical Insights to Better Understand Clinical Outcomes

The gluten-free diet (GFD) remains a complex paradigm in managing celiac disease (CeD) in children and adults, and there are many reasons why GFD adherence should be strict to improve outcomes. However, this is a challenging task for patients, since they need to have access to quality healthcare resources that facilitate optimal GFD adherence. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the GFD, tackling coexisting nutritional deficiencies, and dealing with complex situations, such as seronegative CeD or non-responsive CeD, all require the involvement of a multidisciplinary team. The short- and long-term follow-up of CeD patients should preferably be performed by a combined Gastroenterology and Nutrition service with well-defined quality standards and the multidisciplinary involvement of physicians, nurses, dietitians, and psychologists. Nutritional advice and counseling by an experienced dietitian can reduce the costs associated with long-term follow-up of CeD patients. Likewise, psychological interventions may be essential in specific scenarios where implementing and sustaining a lifelong GFD can cause a significant psychological burden for patients. This manuscript aims to provide guidelines to improve clinical practice in the follow-up and monitoring of CeD patients and provide information on the nutritional risks of an ill-advised GFD. Clinicians, biochemists, food technologists, dietitians, and psychologists with a global view of the disease have been involved in its writing.

Does a Gluten-Free Diet Improve Quality of Life and Sleep in Patients with Non-Coeliac Gluten/Wheat Sensitivity?

INTRODUCTION

The role of a gluten-free diet (GFD) in Non-Coeliac Gluten/Wheat Sensitivity (NCGWS) is unclear. We present the largest study comparing adherence to a GFD in patients with Coeliac Disease (CD) and NCGWS and assess its impact on quality of life (QoL) and sleep in patients with NCGWS.

METHODS

Patients with NCGWS at a tertiary centre completed the Coeliac Disease Adherence Test (CDAT), Coeliac Symptom Index (CSI) and Sleep Condition Indicator (SCI). Higher CDAT scores indicate worse adherence, higher CSI scores indicate poorer QoL, and higher SCI scores indicate better sleep. CDAT scores were correlated with CSI and SCI scores. A second group of patients with CD completed the CDAT questionnaire only. Results were compared with the CDAT responses from the NCGWS group.

RESULTS

For the NCGWS cohort (n = 125), the median CDAT score was 17/35, indicating poor adherence. The median CSI score was 44/80, with 40% of scores associated with a poor QoL. The median SCI score was 14/32, and DSM-V criteria for insomnia was met by 42% of patients. There was a positive correlation between CSI and CDAT scores (r = 0.59, p < 0.0001) and a negative correlation between SCI and CDAT scores (r = -0.37, p = 0.0002). In the CD cohort (n = 170), the median CDAT score was 13/35. Patients with NCGWS had poorer adherence compared to CD (CDAT: 17.0 vs. 13.0, respectively, p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Patients with NCGWS adhere to a GFD less than those with CD. Poorer adherence to a GFD in patients with NCGWS correlates with a worse QoL and sleep performance.

EATING HABITS AND NUTRITIONAL STATUS OF PATIENTS WITH CELIAC DISEASE IN SOUTH BRAZIL

•Most patients with celiac disease from South Brazil do not consume gluten. •Patients with celiac disease are more careful about gluten cross-contamination in their homes than in restaurants. •Patients with celiac disease from South Brazil have adopted good eating habits with a balanced gluten-free diet. •Nutritional status improved after diagnosis of celiac disease according to body mass index. Background - Celiac disease is defined as a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the small intestine in genetically predisposed people, triggered by exposure to gluten. The only treatment for celiac disease to date is a lifelong gluten-free diet. Eating habits of celiacs play an important role in their nutritional status.Objective - To evaluate the eating habits and nutritional status of patients with celiac disease in Rio Grande do Sul.Methods - This is a cross-sectional study with patients diagnosed with celiac disease residing in Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil) over 18 years of age. An online questionnaire was applied with calls through social networks and also by the Associação dos Celíacos do Brasil - Rio Grande do Sul Section. Sociodemographic data, history of celiac disease, general medical history, reported weight and height and food consumption data (SISVAN food frequency questionnaire and general questions) were collected. Results - The sample consisted of 142 individuals with a mean age of 39.75±11.5 years, 94.4% were women and 93% were white. The patients showed care regarding a gluten-free diet, with the majority not ingesting gluten (82.2%) and being careful regarding cross-contamination by gluten in their homes (85.9%) and in restaurants (62, 4%). Most patients also had good eating habits, with frequent consumption of fruits, vegetables, meats, eggs and low frequency of processed foods and fats. Body weight before and after the diagnosis of celiac disease did not show significant changes (62.3±13.8 versus 63.6±11.7 kg; P=0.147); however, there was an improvement in the classification of nutritional status by body mass index (malnourished: 11.6% before versus 2.3% after; P=0.016). Conclusion - Most celiac disease patients in this study have good eating habits with a balanced gluten-free diet and improved nutritional status after diagnosis according to body mass index classification.

Evaluation of the Usefulness of an Automatable Immunoassay for Monitoring Celiac Disease by Quantification of Immunogenic Gluten Peptides in Urine

A gluten-free diet (GFD) is currently the only treatment available for patients with celiac disease (CD). However, adherence to a GFD can be challenging because gluten is present in many foods. A lifelong follow-up of patients with CD must be performed to promote adherence to a GFD and to identify the appearance of symptoms and the associated diseases. Therefore, the development of tools to analyze gluten exposure in these patients is important. This study proposes the development of the first automatable ELISA to monitor adherence to a GFD through the quantification of urine gluten immunogenic peptides (u-GIP). Seven healthy volunteers without suspicion of CD and 23 patients with CD were monitored as part of this study to optimize, validate, and apply this assay. Non-interference was found in the urine matrix, and the recovery percentage for spiked samples was 81–101%. The u-GIP was stable for up to 16 days when the samples were stored at different temperatures. Overall, 100% of the patients had detectable u-GIP at diagnosis (range of 0.39–2.14 ng GIP/mL), which reduced to 27% after 12 months on a GFD. Therefore, this highly sensitive immunoassay would allow the analysis of u-GIP from a large battery of samples in clinical laboratories of specialized healthcare centers.

Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis on the Relationship between Different Gluten Doses and Risk of Coeliac Disease Relapse

Gluten proteins are known as immunological triggers for inflammation resulting in mucosal lesions in patients with coeliac disease (CD). Adherence to a strict gluten-free diet (GFD) is currently known as the only effective treatment for CD. In this study, we performed a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis on data from previous studies to investigate the association between different gluten doses administered and the risk of CD relapse. Electronic databases were systematically searched to retrieve studies that investigated the response of CD patients to different amounts of gluten intake and evaluated the clinical, serologic, and/or histologic evidence to recognize disease relapse. Study-specific relative risks (RRs) were combined using a random effects model. A total of 440 identified published papers were screened, of which 7 records were selected following full-text reviewing and eligibility assessment for dose-response meta-analysis. According to our analysis, the risk of CD relapse is estimated to be 0.2% (RR: 1.002; 95% CI: 1.001 to 1.004) following the consumption of 6 mg gluten/day, which was increased to 7% (RR: 1.07; 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.10), 50% (RR: 1.50; 95% CI: 1.23 to 1.82), 80% (RR: 1.80; 95% CI: 1.36 to 2.38), and 100% (RR: 2.00; 95% CI: 1.43 to 2.78) by the daily intake of 150, 881, 1276, and 1505 mg gluten, respectively. Although good adherence to a GFD can adequately control CD-related symptoms, disease relapse might happen even with a very low dose of gluten, and the duration of exposure to gluten is also an important matter. The current literature has substantial limitations, such as relying on the data from just a few countries that were different in terms of the amount of gluten administered, the duration of the challenge, etc. Therefore, more randomized clinical trials using a standardized gluten challenge protocol are needed to confirm the findings of the present study.

Human small-intestinal gluten-degrading bacteria and its potential implication in celiac disease

Celiac disease (CeD) is an immune-mediated chronic disorder triggered by the ingestion of wheat gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. Gluten is a major food ingredient, infamously containing proline and glutamine-rich domains that are highly resistant to digestion by mammalian proteolytic enzymes. Thus, adhering to a gluten-free diet (GFD) is the only known treatment for CeD, albeit with many complications. Therefore, any therapy that eliminates the gluten immunogenic part before it reaches the small intestine is highly desirable. Probiotic therapy containing gluten-degrading bacteria (GDB) and their protease enzymes are possibly new approaches to treating CeD. Our study aimed to identify novel GDB from the duodenal biopsy of the first-degree relative (FDR) subjects (relatives of diseased individuals who are healthy but susceptible to celiac disease) with the potential to reduce gluten immunogenicity. Using the gluten agar plate technique, bacterial strains Brevibacterium casei NAB46 and Staphylococcus arlettae R2AA77 displaying glutenase activity were screened, identified, and characterized. Whole-genome sequencing found gluten-degrading prolyl endopeptidase (PEP) in the B. casei NAB46 genome and glutamyl endopeptidase (GEP) in the S. arlettae R2AA77 genome. Partially purified PEP has a specific activity of 1.15 U/mg, while GEP has a specific activity of 0.84 U/mg, which are, respectively, 6- and 9-fold times higher after concentrating the enzymes. Our results showed that these enzymes could hydrolyse immunotoxic gliadin peptides recognized in western blot using an anti-gliadin antibody. Additionally, a docking model was proposed for representative gliadin peptide PQPQLPYPQPQLP in the active site of the enzymes, where the residues of the N-terminal peptide extensively interact with the catalytic domain of the enzymes. These bacteria and their associated glutenase enzymes efficiently neutralize gliadin immunogenic epitopes, opening possibilities for their application as a dietary supplement in treating CeD patients.

Predictors of slow responsiveness and partial mucosal recovery in adult patients with celiac disease

Aim

The present study aims to determine the rate of mucosal recovery and predictors of persistent mucosal damage after gluten free diet (GFD).

Background

Celiac disease (CD) is a complex multi-systemic autoimmune disease triggered by exposure to dietary gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. There is still little evidence on the best method for assessing GFD adherence and mucosal recovery during treatment.

Methods

The retrospective study included only adult patients (age≥18 years old), with biopsy-proven CD evaluated at a tertiary referral centre between 2016 and 2021. We performed a logistic regression analysis to identify factors associated with partial mucosal recovery (MR) after GFD. We included in the multivariate analysis parameters available at the time of CD diagnosis.

Results

A total of 102 patients were enrolled, two thirds were females, median age of 39 years (yrs). The initial biopsy analysis showed different stages of villous atrophy (VA) in 79 (77.4%) cases, while in 23(22.5%) cases showed mild enteropathy (Marsh 1, 2). After at least 12 months of GFD, 26 (25.5%) patients had persistent VA despite good or excellent adherence to GFD. Younger patients (< 35yrs), who showed severe mucosal damage (Marsh 3c lesions) and who had increased anti-gliadin antibody (AGA) levels were at risk for failure to obtain mucosal recovery (MR). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that complete mucosal atrophy (P=0.007) and high AGA antibody levels (cutoff 129 U/ml, P=0.001) were independent risk factors for lack of mucosal improvement after at least 12 months of GFD. Interestingly, genotype, tTG-IgA antibody levels, or duration of GFD levels did not influence the occurrence of MR.

Conclusion

Although AGA seropositivity has lost much of their diagnostic significance in recent years due to the introduction of the more sensitive and specific antibody tests, our study reported that patients aged < 35 yrs, who showed severe mucosal damage (Marsh 3c lesions) and who had increased AGA antibody levels at diagnosis were at risk for failure to obtain MR. The elevated AGA levels at diagnosis could be used as a prognostic tool for assessing MR.

The gluten-free diet challenge in adults with coeliac disease: the Hellenic survey

Objective

The only available treatment for coeliac disease (CD) is a lifelong strict gluten-free diet (GFD), which can be extremely challenging. Τhe aim of the present study was to gain an insight into patients' perceptions regarding the GFD, in relation to difficulties experienced, disease-specific symptoms, adherence level, and information sources used.

Methods

Two hundred ninety CD patients (247 women and 43 men) aged 18-74 years, completed a self-administered questionnaire.

Results

Self-rated dietary adherence was high in 65.5%, moderate in 27.5% and poor in 6.9% of the patients. The main difficulties encountered were the high cost and limited availability of GF foods and meals in markets and restaurants. The main source of information concerning CD and GFD was the internet, and the most useful source was the Coeliac Society. Dietary adherence correlated positively with Coeliac Society membership and awareness of the monthly CD allowance.

Conclusion

Α substantial proportion of patients did not adhere to a strict GFD. Patients were not adequately followed-up.

Innovation

A self-administered questionnaire was used to explore the practical challenges of a GFD in an understudied population, Greek adult coeliac patients. The results highlighted the need for dietitians with expertise on CD.

Nutritional status, nutrient imbalances, food-related behaviors and dietary supplements use among patients with celiac disease on a gluten free diet in Lebanon: a national cross-sectional study

Background: Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, that occurs in susceptible individuals and is associated with dietary restriction and subsequent nutritional deficiencies. This study investigated the diet quality, nutrition imbalances and nutrition status among young children,adolescents and adults with CD who followed a gluten free diet an who were referred to several hospitals in Lebanon. Methods: A cross-sectional study in 50 individuals (31.74 ± 15.64 years) with CD was conducted, using biochemical parameters, anthropometric measurements, dietary and physical activity assessments. Results: Of the 50 participants, 38% and 16% were presenting low serum levels of iron and vitamin B12, respectively. The majority of participants were physically inactive and around 40% of them had low muscle mass. A weight loss of 10% to 30% indicating mild to moderate malnutrition was shown in 14% of individuals. The assessment of food-related behaviors shows that 80% of participants were reading nutrition labels and 96% of them were following gluten-free diets. Some barriers including family ignorance (6%), language of the nutrition labels (20%) and expensive GF products (78%) were limiting the adherence to GFD. The inadequacy of the daily energy intake along with insufficient intakes of calcium and vitamin D were remarked among individuals with CD. However, protein and iron intake were exceeding the recommendations among all age groups, except in males aged 4-8 years and 19-30 years. Half the study participants were using dietary supplements where 38%, 10%, 46%, 18%, 16% and 4% used vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, calcium, folate and probiotics, respectively. Conclusion: GFD is the key treatment for CD. However, it is not without inadequacies and may cause certain deficiencies such as calcium and vitamin D leading to reduced bone density. This underlines the critical role of dietitians in education and maintenance of healthy GFD among individuals with CD.

Safety Assessment of Foods and Drinks Consumed by People on a Gluten-Free Diet

Naturally gluten-free foods and processed foods that do not contain information about the potential presence of gluten in them pose a hypothetical threat to people with food allergies and celiac disease. Patients who should follow a strict gluten-free diet do not always do so. Therefore, the aim of this research was to analyze certified “gluten-free” and naturally gluten-free products without labeled “may contain gluten” information in terms of their content of gluten proteins. The enzyme immunoassay AgraQuant Gluten G12 ELISA test kit was used for the analysis. Of all the products used in the research, only 5.8% were found to contain gluten above 20 ppm. Only one product labeled “gluten-free” was contaminated with gluten at 79.3 ppm (cider cake). In addition, our research also examined the gluten content of commercial beers containing barley malt not labeled as “gluten-free”. Research has shown that 60% of samples are not safe for those on a strict gluten-free diet. Our research clearly shows that many manufacturers, although they do not monitor their products for the presence of gluten in them, offer safe products, although they cannot be recommended in a gluten-free diet. Therefore, there is a strong need to increase the frequency of testing by food manufacturers for the presence of gluten in their products, so that the number of products approved for people on a gluten-free diet continues to increase.

Sex–Gender Differences in Adult Coeliac Disease at Diagnosis and Gluten-Free-Diet Follow-Up

Coeliac disease (CD) is an immune-mediated enteropathy triggered by gluten ingestion. At CD diagnosis, gender differences have been previously reported, but data regarding follow-up are scant. We investigated gender differences in CD adult patients both at the time of diagnosis and at follow-up after the start of the gluten-free diet (GFD). This is a longitudinal cohort study on adult CD patients diagnosed between 2008 and 2019. Clinical, biochemical, and histological data were assessed and compared between males and females. At diagnosis, female gender was significantly associated with signs of malabsorption (OR 3.39; 95% CI: 1.4–7.9), longer duration of symptoms and/or signs before the diagnosis (OR 3.39; 95% CI: 1.5–7.5), heartburn (OR 2.99; 95% CI: 1.1–8.0), dyspepsia (OR 2.70; 95% CI: 1.1–6.5), nausea/vomit (OR 3.53; 95% CI: 1.1–10.9), and constipation (OR 4.84; 95% CI: 1.2–19.6) and less frequently associated to higher body mass index (OR 0.88; 95% CI: 0.8–0.9) and osteopenia/osteoporosis (OR 0.30; 95% CI: 0.1–0.7) compared to male patients. After 12–30 months, females presented lower median BMI, performed less frequently histological control, and had more frequently anaemia and hypoferritinaemia compared to males. No significant differences concerning the presence of gastrointestinal symptoms, adherence to GFD, and Marsh score were found. Gender differences found at CD diagnosis mostly disappear at the follow-up, showing that these differences can be solved over time.

Celiac Disease and Targeting the Molecular Mechanisms of Autoimmunity in COVID Pandemic

Celiac disease (CD) comprises over 1% of the world’s population and is a chronic multisystem immune-mediated condition manifested by digestive and/or extradigestive symptoms caused by food intake of gluten. This review looked at the risk of children diagnosed with CD developing SARS-CoV-2 infection and possible severe forms of COVID-19. A better understanding of the interaction and effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection in CD is very important, as is the role of environmental and genetic factors, but especially the molecular mechanisms involved in modulating intestinal permeability with impact on autoimmunity. CD inspired the testing of a zonulin antagonist for the fulminant form of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) and paved the way for the discovery of new molecules to regulate the small intestine barrier function and immune responses. Original published works on COVID-19 and CD, new data and points of view have been analyzed because this dangerous virus SARS-CoV-2 is still here and yet influencing our lives. Medical science continues to focus on all uncertainties triggered by SARS-CoV-2 infection and its consequences, including in CD. Although the COVID-19 pandemic seems to be gradually extinguishing, there is a wealth of information and knowledge gained over the last two years and important life lessons to analyze, as well as relevant conclusions to be drawn to deal with future pandemics. Zonulin is being studied extensively in immunoengineering as an adjuvant to improving the absorption of new drugs and oral vaccines.

Celiac Disease and Targeting the Molecular Mechanisms of Autoimmunity in COVID Pandemic

Celiac disease (CD) comprises over 1% of the world's population and is a chronic multisystem immune-mediated condition manifested by digestive and/or extradigestive symptoms caused by food intake of gluten. This review looked at the risk of children diagnosed with CD developing SARS-CoV-2 infection and possible severe forms of COVID-19. A better understanding of the interaction and effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection in CD is very important, as is the role of environmental and genetic factors, but especially the molecular mechanisms involved in modulating intestinal permeability with impact on autoimmunity. CD inspired the testing of a zonulin antagonist for the fulminant form of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) and paved the way for the discovery of new molecules to regulate the small intestine barrier function and immune responses. Original published works on COVID-19 and CD, new data and points of view have been analyzed because this dangerous virus SARS-CoV-2 is still here and yet influencing our lives. Medical science continues to focus on all uncertainties triggered by SARS-CoV-2 infection and its consequences, including in CD. Although the COVID-19 pandemic seems to be gradually extinguishing, there is a wealth of information and knowledge gained over the last two years and important life lessons to analyze, as well as relevant conclusions to be drawn to deal with future pandemics. Zonulin is being studied extensively in immunoengineering as an adjuvant to improving the absorption of new drugs and oral vaccines.

Eating Competence and Aspects Related to a Gluten-Free Diet in Brazilian Adults with Gluten-Related Disorders

This cross-sectional study aims to assess eating competence (EC—an intra-individual approach to food, behaviors, and attitudes related to food) and aspects related to a gluten-free diet (GFD) in Brazilian adults with gluten-related disorders (GRDs). The research was conducted using an online survey with a self-reported instrument consisting of 40 items, organized into three parts: (I) Socioeconomic and demographic data; (II) the Brazilian version of the Eating Competence Satter Inventory (ec-SI2.0™BR); and (III) questions about adherence and difficulties in following the gluten-free diet. EC was measured by the ecSI2.0™BR instrument, with scores ≥32 were considered competent eaters. The instrument was applied nationwide through the GoogleForms® platform from 14 February 2022 to 30 March 2022. The publicity for the recruitment was supported by Brazilian celiac local and national associations (Acelbras and Fenacelbra), pages of food services or personal pages of tips and posts about gluten-related disorders, and specialized stores that offer gluten-free foods. The recruitment occurred through social networks (emails, Facebook groups, WhatsApp, and Instagram). A total of 1030 Brazilians with GRDs answered the questionnaire. Most participants were female, aged 40 years or older, with an income >R$3000, and a high education level. The main difficulty regarding adherence to GFD was the high cost of gluten-free foods. Individuals younger than 40 years old had lower EC scores, with no differences between men and women. Increasing socioeconomic status, schooling, and culinary practices increased the total score. Participants who “never/almost never” felt socially judged because their diet had higher scores for total EC. Competent eaters GRD individuals (EC ≥ 32) were mostly individuals aged ≥40 y/o; with income > R$3000; following a GFD; satisfied with purchased gluten-free products; consuming gluten-free products prepared at home, mainly by themselves; who do not feel judged because of the GRD and who feel that they can live a normal life with GRD. Our study showed that individuals who strictly adhere to the GFD have higher scores on eating competence than those who sometimes follow the treatment.

Nutritional status, nutrient imbalances, food-related behaviors and dietary supplements use among patients with celiac disease in Lebanon: a national cross-sectional study

Background: Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, that occurs in susceptible individuals and is associated with dietary restriction and subsequent nutritional deficiencies. This study investigated the diet quality, nutrition imbalances and nutrition status among young children, adolescents and adults with CD who were referred to several hospitals in Lebanon. Methods: A cross-sectional study in 50 individuals (31.74 ± 15.64 years) with CD was conducted, using biochemical parameters, anthropometric measurements, dietary and physical activity assessments. Results: Of the 50 participants, 38% and 16% were presenting low serum levels of iron and vitamin B12, respectively. The majority of participants were physically inactive and around 40% of them had low muscle mass. A weight loss of 10% to 30% indicating mild to moderate malnutrition was shown in 14% of individuals. The assessment of food-related behaviors shows that 80% of participants were reading nutrition labels and 96% of them were following gluten-free diets (GFD). Some barriers including family ignorance (6%), language of the nutrition labels (20%) and expensive GF products (78%) were limiting the adherence to GFD. The inadequacy of the daily energy intake along with insufficient intakes of calcium and vitamin D were remarked among individuals with CD. However, protein and iron intake were exceeding the recommendations among all age groups, except in males aged 4-8 years and 19-30 years. Half the study participants were using dietary supplements where 38%, 10%, 46%, 18%, 16% and 4% used vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, calcium, folate and probiotics, respectively. Conclusion: GFD is the key treatment for CD. However, it is not without inadequacies and may cause certain deficiencies such as calcium and vitamin D leading to reduced bone density. This underlines the critical role of dietitians in education and maintenance of healthy GFD among individuals with CD.

Influence of Gluten-Free Diet on Gut Microbiota Composition in Patients with Coeliac Disease: A Systematic Review

The aim of this study was to assess the changes in microbiota composition during a gluten-free diet (GFD) in coeliac disease (CD) patients. The systematic search followed databases such as PUBMED (MEDLINE), SCOPUS, WEB OF SCIENCE and EMBASE. Out of 843 initially screened papers, a total number of 13 research papers were included. A total of 212 patients with CD on GFD, in comparison to 174 healthy individuals and 176 untreated patients with CD, were examined. Analysis of the microbial community based primarily on faecal samples and duodenal biopsies. Bifidobacterium was noticed to be less abundant in the study group than in both control groups, while the abundance of Bacteroides was more numerous in the group of CD patients on GFD. Staphylococcaceae prevailed in untreated CD patients. Despite the fact that the GFD was not able to fully restore commensal microorganism abundance, the treatment was associated with the greater abundance of selected beneficial bacteria and lower presence of pathogenic bacteria associated with worsening of CD symptoms.

Biomarkers to Monitor Adherence to Gluten-Free Diet by Celiac Disease Patients: Gluten Immunogenic Peptides and Urinary miRNAs

Celiac disease (CD) is a multifactorial autoimmune enteropathy with a prevalence greater than 1% in the pediatric population. The only therapy for CD patients is a strict gluten-free diet (GFD). Gluten-free food contamination by other cereals during packaging and cooking or accidental ingestion of gluten may cause several intestinal and extraintestinal symptoms in CD patients. Therefore, the monitoring of gluten contamination in food and assessing the level of ingested gluten by analytical biomarkers has been of great interest in recent years. To this aim, small gluten immunogenic peptides (GIPs) obtained by the hydrolysis of gluten and present in urine and feces have been studied as biomarkers of gluten intake and to monitor adherence to GFD by CD patients. More recently, the use of circulating, fecal and urinary miRNAs has emerged as a novel diagnostic tool that can be potentially applied to assess adherence to GFD. Moreover, the presence of GIPs and miRNAs in both feces and urine suggests a similar excretion modality and the possibility of using urinary miRNAs, similarly to GIPs, as potential biomarkers of GFD in CD patients.

Biomarkers for the diagnosis and monitoring of celiac disease: can you count on me?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Different markers are available to diagnose and monitor celiac disease (CeD); however, the concordance among them and their efficacy are still controversial. We aim at defining the efficacy of CeD biomarkers, their advantages and limits.

RECENT FINDINGS

CeD diagnostic criteria are widely accepted, being a positive serology and duodenal atrophy (according to the Marsh-Oberhuber score) the main hallmarks. Flow cytometry and other molecular biomarkers support the diagnosis of refractory CeD. On the other side, CeD monitoring is less defined, as the biomarkers are not always reliable. To date, the reference standard to detect mucosal healing is represented by duodenal histology, but its timing and significance are debated. Novel scores may better define the trend of mucosal damage and MicroRNAs are among the innovative noninvasive biomarkers. The assessment of a correct gluten-free diet (GFD) is another aspect of CeD monitoring, based upon questionnaires and recently developed tools such as dosage of urinary or faecal gluten immunogenic peptides.

SUMMARY

Clinicians lack of a widely acknowledged tools to monitor CeD and GFD. Here, we present the efficacy of the most used markers.

Advances in Celiac Disease and Gluten-Free Diet

Celiac disease (CD) is a systemic disease that causes chronic enteropathy of the small intestine and develops through an inadequate immune response to gluten in genetically predisposed individuals [...].

Nutritional status, nutrient imbalances, food-related behaviors and dietary supplements use among patients with celiac disease on a gluten free diet in Lebanon: a national cross-sectional study

Background: Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, that occurs in susceptible individuals and is associated with dietary restriction and subsequent nutritional deficiencies. This study investigated the diet quality, nutrition imbalances and nutrition status among young children,adolescents and adults with CD who were referred to several hospitals in Lebanon. Methods: A cross-sectional study in 50 individuals (31.74 ± 15.64 years) with CD who follow a gluten free diet was conducted, using biochemical parameters, anthropometric measurements, dietary and physical activity assessments. Results: Of the 50 participants, 38% and 16% were presenting low serum levels of iron and vitamin B12, respectively. The majority of participants were physically inactive and around 40% of them had low muscle mass. A weight loss of 10% to 30% indicating mild to moderate malnutrition was shown in 14% of individuals. The assessment of food-related behaviors shows that 80% of participants were reading nutrition labels and 96% of them were following gluten-free diets (GFD). Some barriers including family ignorance (6%), language of the nutrition labels (20%) and expensive GF products (78%) were limiting the adherence to GFD. The inadequacy of the daily energy intake along with insufficient intakes of calcium and vitamin D were remarked among individuals with CD. However, protein and iron intake were exceeding the recommendations among all age groups, except in males aged 4-8 years and 19-30 years. Half the study participants were using dietary supplements where 38%, 10%, 46%, 18%, 16% and 4% used vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, calcium, folate and probiotics, respectively. Conclusion: GFD is the key treatment for CD. However, it is not without inadequacies and may cause certain deficiencies such as calcium and vitamin D leading to reduced bone density. This underlines the critical role of dietitians in education and maintenance of healthy GFD among individuals with CD.

The Gluten-Free Diet for Celiac Disease and Beyond

The gluten-free diet (GFD) has gained popularity beyond its main medical indication as the treatment for gluten-induced immune-mediated disorders such as celiac disease (CD), dermatitis herpetiformis, gluten ataxia, wheat allergy, and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. However, the diet carries some disadvantages such as elevated costs, nutritional deficiencies, and social and psychological barriers. The present work aims to review indications, proven benefits, and adverse events of a gluten-free diet. Close follow-up with patients following the diet is recommended. More data is needed to assess the effectiveness of the diet in managing mental and cognitive disorders and to establish a connection between the brain and gluten.