Coeliacs may need more antioxidants

Monday, 21 September 2009 13:56

A new study has shown the antioxidant capacity of patients with coeliac disease is significantly reduced. The work was prompted by findings over the past decade which have shown that gluten corrupts the pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance in intestinal mucosa, which is most likely caused by an overproduction of free radicals. The findings come from research conducted on a group of 39 children with various forms of coeliac disease, and 19 control subjects. The authors suggest a diet rich in antioxidants and appropriate dietary supplements may be necessary complements to classic coeliac disease therapies.  

Given the number of food companies placing a stronger focus on gluten free foods, findings such as these may prompt the development of antioxidant-rich gluten free functional foods tailored specifically for the growing gluten free market niche.

Reference: Stojiljkovic  et al. 2009. Clinical Biochemistry. Vol 42, Issues 13-14 pp 1431-1437.