The link between gluten consumption and joint problems, while less well-known, has been the subject of several studies, particularly regarding inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Some research has suggested that for people sensitive to gluten, consuming this food could contribute to joint pain and inflammation.
1. Gluten and arthritis :
For people with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, gluten ingestion has been shown to exacerbate symptoms. A study published in Rheumatology International (2014) found that people with rheumatoid arthritis following a gluten-free diet reported a decrease in joint pain and inflammation. Indeed, in some cases, gluten may trigger an immune response that affects not only the intestines but also the joints.
2. Arthritis related to celiac disease :
There is also a documented link between celiac disease and joint pain. Celiac disease, which triggers an immune response to gluten consumption, can cause symptoms that extend beyond the digestive system, including joint and muscle pain. A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology (2015) showed that people with undiagnosed or untreated celiac disease are more likely to experience joint pain. Once these patients adopt a gluten-free diet, their joint pain often decreases significantly.
3. Non-celiac gluten sensitivity :
Even without a diagnosis of celiac disease, some people with gluten sensitivity may experience joint symptoms. According to a study published in BMC Medicine (2014), some patients with non-celiac gluten sensitivity report joint pain as a key symptom, in addition to digestive issues.
In summary, although the impact of gluten on joint problems varies from person to person, there is evidence that in some individuals, particularly those with inflammatory or autoimmune diseases, gluten consumption can worsen inflammation and joint pain.
