Ask Dr. Nick
On today’s episode, Dr. Nick talks about how gluten can affect the brain leading to balance and coordination problems. Gluten is a protein in wheat that can cause disruption in the human gut. Only 1% of the population has celiac disease, which is an autoimmune disease where antibodies that bind to gluten cross-react with tissue in the human gut leading to inflammation. Non-celiac gluten sensitivity is much more common and has a similar autoimmune mechanism. Antibodies can be made against similar enzymes in the skin and brain that lead to damage. This can cause damage to the cerebellum, brainstem, and spinal cord resulting in ataxia (poor coordination), balance problems, neuropathies, and psychiatric problems like anxiety and depression. Check out the video for more in depth information on how gluten can affect the nervous system!
Osman D, Umar S, Muhammad H, Nikfekr E, Rostami K, Ishaq S. Neurological manifestation of coeliac disease with particular emphasis on gluten ataxia and immunological injury: a review article. Gastroenterol Hepatol Bed Bench. 2021;14(1):1-7.
