ALS Untangled found weak evidence linking gluten-related disorders with ALS
Original source
Gluten-Free Diet (opens in a new tab)An ALS Untangled review found weak evidence that gluten-induced autoimmunity may trigger amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The evidence consisted of two association studies and one case report. It said more research is needed before the value of a gluten-free diet can be established for people with both conditions.
Why this matters
The review suggests screening people with ALS who have gastrointestinal symptoms, iron-deficiency anemia or an abnormal brain MRI for antibodies linked to gluten-related disorders. Anyone with elevated antibodies could be referred to a gastroenterologist and, if a disorder is confirmed, try a gluten-free diet with dietitian monitoring. This does not establish that the diet treats ALS or change treatment based on current evidence.
Limitations and context
This is an independent expert review published in 2015, not new primary research. Its assessment relied on two association studies and one case report, so the proposed link and the usefulness of a gluten-free diet remain uncertain. The review also noted that a gluten-free diet is complex and more expensive than a standard diet.