Eating Disorders & Celiac Disease (Gluten Allergy)

As many of you know, I am currently researching the role of digestion in the prevention & treatment of eating disorders for my graduate studies at Plymouth State (Eating Disorders Institute Certificate).

I wanted to share an article I found — it is a link from the Something Fishy website. The article explains a possible connection between celiac disease and eating disorders. I believe most of the research talks about celiac disease being present once anorexia, bulimia or binge eating have been diagnosed. The question is, could celiac be a contributor?

Celiac – More Digestive Distress

Could Celiac be a contributing factor?
Since celiac destroys the micorvilli of the small intestine — basically creates leaky gut and malabsorption of nutrients — it is another illness in the category of digestive distress. There are many ways that digestion can be compromised, including eating disorders. And there are many contributors to digestive distress before eating disorders begin.

Drugs or Not?

Recently, a reader asked me about taking drugs for eating disorders. As I am not a healthcare professional, I make no recommendations about drugs. I will say that each person should treat a doctor’s recommendation for drugs the same as you would a doctor’s recommendation for surgery. Get a second opinion and a third. Educate yourself. Then do what you feel is in the best interest for your health. Remember to consult a variety of health professionals, like Naturopaths (e.g., British & American Naturopahthic Associations) and Doctors of Environmental Medicine .

Educate Yourself

If you do decide to take drugs, remember that drugs are not nutritional repair tools. Their goal is to alleviate the disordered eating behavior or associated depression. The underlying nutritional deficiencies and digestive deficiencies still exist. Educate yourself on how you can heal your body, so that depression, anxiety, IBS and other typical complaints can be healed. As you know, Digestive Wellness, by Elizabeth Lipski is an absolute favorite of mine. Take a leadership role in your recovery and use your medical and healthcare professionals as guides along the way.

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Heather Dane

As a coach, writer and recovered former executive, I understand the challenges of creating a balanced, healthy lifestyle when over-scheduled. In my journey to radiant health, I created a whole health system of eating, exercise, renewal and recharging -- a roadmap toward health & vitality. I empower clients to create their own whole health systems, in their own unique ways. I have seen amazing results in working with my clients!
On May 6, 2006   /   Articles, Eating Disorders