Overview

Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, can wreak havoc in the digestive systems and bodies of individuals who are sensitive or allergic to it. While it has been a dietary staple for centuries, modern research, including insights from Dr. William Davis’s Wheat Belly, suggests that gluten may play a significant role in chronic health conditions. From damaging the gut lining to triggering widespread inflammation, gluten’s effects go far beyond simple digestive discomfort.

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How Gluten Disrupts the Digestive System and Beyond (Celiac and Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity)

Studies have linked gluten consumption to various chronic conditions, in individuals with celiac disease, and at times for those without the disease but who may be sensitive to gluten (Lebwohl, 2015). The latter condition is termed as 'non-celiac gluten sensitivity' (NCGS). In both cases, the trigger begins in the digestive tract but there are differences in the severity of reaction and way of diagnosis. 

We will take a closer look at how gluten in its modern quality, may be contributing to chronic illnesses:

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1. Villi Damage and Impaired Nutrient Absorption

The small intestine is lined with tiny, finger-like projections called villi, which play a crucial role in nutrient absorption. When gluten triggers an immune response, particularly in those with celiac disease or sensitivity, these villi can become damaged or flattened, reducing their ability to absorb essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, and vitamins B12 and D. This malabsorption can lead to conditions like anemia, osteoporosis, and chronic fatigue. 
 

2. Leaky Gut Syndrome and Systemic Inflammation

Leaky gut syndrome, or increased intestinal permeability, occurs when the lining of the gut becomes compromised, allowing harmful substances such as undigested food particles, toxins, and bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Gluten has been shown to trigger the release of zonulin, a protein that regulates tight junctions in the intestinal lining (Vanuytsel, 2013). Elevated zonulin levels can cause these junctions to loosen, leading to inflammation and immune system overactivation. Studies have linked leaky gut syndrome to conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), autoimmune diseases, and even neurological disorders. A 2015 study in Nutrients found that gluten consumption increased intestinal permeability in both celiac and non-celiac individuals, suggesting that even those without celiac disease may be at risk for systemic inflammation due to gluten exposure (Hollon, 2015).
 

3. Inflammation and Autoimmune Disorders

Once gluten disrupts the gut, its effects spread throughout the body. Increased intestinal permeability allows toxins and undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream, triggering widespread inflammation. This has been linked to autoimmune disorders such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (low thyroid), rheumatoid arthritis (joint pain), and multiple sclerosis (Piticchio, 2023; Wikipedia, 2025 and Passali, 2020). 
 

4. Neurological Health and Cognitive Impairment

The gut-brain connection is well-documented, and research has shown that gluten can impact neurological conditions such as ataxia, as well as cognitive impairments (Makhlouf, 2017). Studies have also found links between gluten sensitivity and conditions such as migraines, epilepsy, and even schizophrenia (Levinta, 2018), with one study observing that children with schizophrenia were more likely to have gluten sensitivity or celiac disease (Bender, 1953). 
 

5. Metabolic and Cardiovascular Diseases

While research suggests that gluten may not have a direct impact on cardiovascular diseases, studies have shown that excessive consumption of refined grain products such as white bread, pizza crusts, pastries and burger buns, can contribute to 33% higher risk for heart diseases (Kerry Health and Nutrition Institute, 2021). Further, Dr. Davis, author of Wheat Belly, argues that wheat consumption, especially in its refined form, contributes to insulin resistance, obesity, and diabetes. As gluten-containing wheat-based foods often have a high glycemic index, this may lead to blood sugar spikes that increase the risk of metabolic syndrome.
 

6. Digestive Disorders Beyond Celiac Disease

While celiac disease is the most well-known gluten-related disorder, many people experience digestive distress from gluten without testing positive for celiac. Non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) can cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Studies have concluded that gluten-free diets significantly improved gastrointestinal symptoms in NCGS patients (Lebwohl, 2015). 

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Should Everyone Avoid Gluten?

The debate over whether gluten is harmful to everyone is ongoing. While individuals with celiac disease, NCGS, or autoimmune conditions may benefit significantly from eliminating gluten and diary in some cases (Levinta, 2018), others may not experience the same effects. My personal experience of unglutening has been nothing but positively life-changing, and I urge anybody reading this to at least remove processed wheat and reduce soy sauce from your diets, as this will be a step towards better health by consuming less refined sugars, preservatives and saturated fats. 

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You may also wish to read up on my personal journey to see if you are experiencing any similar symptoms. However, it is always best to check in with a trusted doctor who understands holistic healthcare before attempting any major changes in your diet. 

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