Prevalence and Characterization of Self-Reported Gluten Sensitivity in The Netherlands
- PMID: 27834802
- PMCID: PMC5133100
- DOI: 10.3390/nu8110714
Prevalence and Characterization of Self-Reported Gluten Sensitivity in The Netherlands
Abstract
Background: A growing number of individuals reports symptoms related to the ingestion of gluten-containing food in the absence of celiac disease. Yet the actual prevalence is not well established.
Methods: Between April 2015 and March 2016, unselected adults visiting marketplaces, dental practices and a university in The Netherlands were asked to complete a modified validated questionnaire for self-reported gluten sensitivity (srGS).
Results: Among the 785 adults enquired, two had celiac disease. Forty-nine (6.2%) reported symptoms related to the ingestion of gluten-containing food. These individuals were younger, predominantly female and lived more frequently in urban regions compared with the other respondents. Symptoms reported included bloating (74%), abdominal discomfort (49%) and flatulence (47%). A total of 23 (47%) srGS individuals reported having had tried a gluten-free or gluten-restricted diet. Abdominal discomfort related to fermentable oligosaccharide, disaccharide, monosaccharide and polyol (FODMAP)-containing food was more often reported in srGS individuals compared with the other respondents (73.5% vs. 21.7%, p < 0.001).
Conclusion: Self-reported GS is common in The Netherlands, especially in younger individuals, females and urban regions, although the prevalence was lower than in a comparable recent UK study. It cannot be excluded that FODMAPs are in part responsible for these symptoms.
Keywords: FODMAPs; celiac disease; gluten; irritable bowel syndrome; non-celiac gluten sensitivity; non-celiac wheat sensitivity.
Conflict of interest statement
D.S.S. has received educational grants for investigator-conceived and -led studies on both Coeliac Disease and Non-Coeliac Gluten Sensitivity from Schaer.
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References
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- The Great Gluten-Free Scam. [(accessed on 1 September 2016)]. Available online: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/food-and-drink/news/the-great-gluten-free-scam/
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