(RxWiki News) Many of us have been told that it’s important to watch our diets and exercise if we want to live a better, longer life. In the case of women with celiac disease, it’s often times their only option.
But monitoring your diet and the foods you consume can have a startling effect if you have celiac. Instead of feeling healthier and giving you more energy, it can leave you feeling depressed and even lead to eating disorders.
"Talk to a nutritionist for more information about gluten "
Celiac disease is a disorder caused by the consumption of gluten, which is found in wheat, breads, pasta and rye. Often times, the only treatment is to cut gluten out of your diet completely.
But researchers found that women who suffer from celiac disease tend to develop emotional and physical issues associated with their prescribed dietary change.
Penn State University researchers analyzed 177 American women with celiac and found that these women suffered from increased rates of depression, stress and even developed eating disorders. In many cases, these women also suffered from physical ailments such as vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and change in appetite.
According to the study, these types of results are due to overwhelming dietary restrictions that can lead to disorganized eating and depression.
It can even impede on the social wellbeing of these individuals.
“Going out to eat with friends or to a holiday potluck is a much different experience for these people because they have to be vigilant and monitor their diets,’’ says Dr. Smyth.
This study was sponsored by Penn State University and published by Chronic Illness in December 2011. No conflicts in funding were presented.