Gluten intolerance, also known as celiac disease, is a condition that affects millions of people around the world. A new study has found that those who suffer from gluten intolerance are at an increased risk of heart attacks.

The research, which was conducted by scientists from several universities, found a direct link between the two.

What is gluten intolerance?

Gluten intolerance is a digestive disorder that affects the small intestine. It is triggered by the consumption of gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

For individuals with gluten intolerance, consuming even small amounts of gluten can cause damage to the small intestine, which can lead to various health problems including nutrient deficiencies and digestive issues.

The study

The study on gluten intolerance and heart attacks was conducted by researchers from Columbia University, Harvard Medical School, and other universities.

The research team analyzed data from over 100,000 participants who had participated in long-term health studies such as the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study.

The research team found that individuals with gluten intolerance were 30% more likely to have a heart attack compared to those without the condition. The risk was highest among those who consumed large amounts of gluten.

The study also found that individuals with gluten intolerance had a higher risk of developing coronary artery disease, which is a leading cause of heart attacks.

Why does gluten intolerance increase the risk of heart attacks?

The exact mechanisms behind the increased risk of heart attacks in individuals with gluten intolerance are not yet fully understood. However, researchers believe that inflammation may play a key role.

Gluten intolerance triggers an immune response in the small intestine, which can lead to chronic inflammation and damage to blood vessels. This can increase the risk of atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in the arteries that can lead to heart attacks.

What can be done to reduce the risk?

Individuals with gluten intolerance should strictly avoid consuming gluten-containing foods. This means avoiding wheat, barley, rye, and all foods made from these grains.

Consuming gluten-free substitutes such as gluten-free bread, pasta, and cereals can help individuals with gluten intolerance to maintain a healthy diet. It is also important to ensure that the diet is rich in nutrients to avoid deficiencies, which can exacerbate the risk of heart disease.

Other lifestyle factors such as exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can also help to reduce the risk of heart disease in individuals with gluten intolerance. Regular exercise can help to improve cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.

Maintaining a healthy weight can also reduce the risk of heart disease and other health problems.

Conclusion

The new research on gluten intolerance and heart attacks highlights the importance of understanding the potential health risks of this condition.

Individuals with gluten intolerance should work closely with their healthcare providers to manage the condition and reduce the risk of heart disease. It is important to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, which includes regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight.