Core Topic
Got bloated or a stomach ache after eating bread or pasta? You might blame gluten, but a new international study in The Lancet (led by the University of Melbourne) says otherwise – around 10% of people with these symptoms have little to do with gluten. The real culprits are elsewhere.
Episode Highlights
- Lancet Study Debunks "Gluten Scapegoat" Myth
First, rule out celiac disease (an autoimmune disease that damages the intestines) and wheat allergy. The remaining ~10% with "non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS)" used to blame gluten. But the study finds: over 70% of NCGS cases have no link to gluten protein. - Culprit 1: FODMAPs – Hard-to-Digest Carbs
Bread and pasta contain "FODMAPs" (hard-to-digest carbs). The small intestine can’t absorb them, so they reach the large intestine, where bacteria ferment them wildly – producing gas and drawing water, causing bloating and pain. Symptoms are easily mistaken for gluten-induced issues. - Culprit 2: Over-Sensitive Gut-Brain Connection
Pain and bloating are real, but the gut-brain connection may act like a "smoke alarm with too high sensitivity" – normal gut gas triggers an "alert," leading to discomfort. Even "gluten-free placebo food" can cause pain, similar to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). - Practical Tips: Stop Blindly Cutting Gluten
- If you bloat after eating FODMAP-rich foods (e.g., bread, onions), reduce intake under a dietitian’s guidance;
- For gut-brain sensitivity, try relaxation or professional intervention (e.g., gut-directed hypnotherapy);
- See a gastroenterologist first to rule out celiac disease or allergy, avoiding nutrient deficiencies from random dietary restrictions.
Don’t just blame gluten for wheat-induced bloating – it’s mostly caused by FODMAPs or gut-brain sensitivity. Curious about more study details and scientific solutions? Tune in to this episode to ease gut discomfort and enjoy eating with more peace of mind!
