A new study by McMaster University in Canada has challenged the common perception that gluten is a dietary villain, capable of causing gastrointestinal troubles. Researchers found that people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) often wrongly blame gluten for their symptoms, and in fact, eating food containing gluten or wheat did not worsen their condition as much as previously thought.
The study, which involved 28 IBS patients, used a randomized trial to test the effects of gluten on the participants’ symptoms. The results showed that people who ate gluten-containing bars experienced worsening IBS symptoms just as often as those who ate non-gluten/wheat bars. This suggests that expectations and negative perceptions may be playing a major role in the development of IBS symptoms.
The study’s findings have important implications for how IBS is diagnosed and treated. The researchers argue that patients may benefit from psychological support and guidance to help destigmatize gluten and wheat, allowing them to reintroduce these foods safely into their diet.
While the study’s results are promising, it’s essential to note that they were based on a small sample size, and more research is needed to confirm the findings. However, the study’s senior author, Premysl Bercik, emphasizes the need for better communication and follow-up care from doctors to help patients manage their IBS symptoms.
“The traditional approach of simply telling patients that gluten is not the trigger may not be enough,” Dr. Bercik said. “We need to work with them further to provide psychological support and guidance to help them reintroduce gluten and wheat safely into their diet.”
Source: https://gizmodo.com/gluten-could-be-wrongly-blamed-for-americans-stomach-troubles-2000632584