Those who are suffering from arthritis know how painful and debilitating it can be. Sadly, many of those people will have to resort to using pain medication and even some forms of medication that can suppress the immune system to make it through the day. Fortunately, there are some other options available to those who are looking to relieve their arthritis pain without having to take some of these harsher measures. One of these alternatives is a gluten free diet. While the scientific community tends to agree that a gluten free diet can help those with arthritis, not all the evidence points to that conclusion. In this article, we will discuss the relationship between gluten and arthritis as well as how a gluten free diet can help those with arthritis pain. Also, we will explore the possible side effects of a gluten free diet so that you know what to expect before starting this new eating regimen.
Gluten And Arthritis
Just like many other diseases, arthritis has been connected to a number of different causes and most cases seem to have multiple factors involved. However, while researching the possible connections between gluten and arthritis, many scientists have found that there is an undeniable connection. In some cases, the relationship between the two seems to be so strong that eliminating gluten from the patient’s diet brings about swift and nearly immediate relief. The problem is that not all arthritis patients will be able to benefit from a gluten free diet and for those who can, the effects can be both immediate and life-changing. In some instances, those who follow a gluten free diet have seen their arthritis symptoms decrease by around 70% within just a few weeks of starting the new eating routine.
Even though the connection between gluten and arthritis is strong, not all the evidence points to a cause and effect relationship. Many studies have been done and they all seem to point to the same conclusion – that gluten does in fact cause arthritis. However, this does not mean that everyone with arthritis will necessarily feel better if they remove gluten from their diet. It simply means that in some cases, eating gluten can lead to the development of arthritis. This is why it is so important to seek proper medical advice before starting a gluten free diet as well as continuing with the diet even if you feel it is working for you. In some instances, those who follow a gluten-free diet may even experience an exacerbation of their arthritis symptoms. In those cases, it may be worth consulting a rheumatologist just to be sure.
The fact that there is an association between gluten and arthritis is undisputed. Many scientists agree that some people with gluten sensitivity will develop arthritis as a result of the diet. However, not all cases will be as clear cut as that. There are many different variables that can affect the development of arthritis. For instance, certain genes may make a person more susceptible to developing the disease. In other cases, it may just be that the person is eating the wrong foods. The truth is, no one really knows the connection between gluten and arthritis exactly. However, what is clear is that those who are looking to avoid the disease may benefit from a gluten-free diet. Many people with arthritis have seen great results from going gluten free and it is always a safe bet to assume that if something has worked for them, it may work for you too.
The Possible Role Of Gluten In Arthritis
Just because there is an association between gluten and arthritis does not mean that we know for certain that eating gluten causes the disease. Many studies have been done and while they all seem to point to the same conclusion, that gluten does in fact cause arthritis, it does not mean that we know for certain that this is true. It simply means that in some cases, eating gluten can lead to the development of arthritis. This happens because there are certain proteins called glutenins that are found in wheat. When these proteins are digested, they may lead to an overproduction of citrulline that can cause inflammation. This in turn can cause arthritis. However, this is a very simplified explanation and not everyone will be able to benefit from a gluten-free diet just because they have arthritis. There are many other factors that can come into play. For instance, people who are genetically prone to developing arthritis will have a better chance at benefitting from a gluten free diet. It is also possible that some people with arthritis are just not made to digest gluten. In either case, it is always a good idea to consult with a rheumatologist just to make sure that you are not harming yourself by going gluten free.
It is important to remember that while gluten can cause arthritis, it does not have to. Many people have found that they are able to maintain healthy joints without taking any of the dietary remedies suggested for arthritis. This is why it is always a good idea to consult with a rheumatologist before starting a gluten free diet. Those who are interested in trying this new eating regimen may find that they are able to decrease their arthritis pain significantly just by eating the right food. In either case, it is always a good idea to try as many different diets as possible and not just go with the flow. Do what feels right for you and your body.