The spectrum of cereal-related disorders includes so-called “non-celiac wheat sensitivity” (or “non-celiac gluten sensitivity”), NCWS and NCGS, terms only defined in the scientific literature within the last decade.
Although direct immune stimulation, as well as microbiome-driven mechanisms, are known to be involved in some situations, a full picture of the exact reasons why remains elusive.
Despite this, data continue to show links between wheat and gluten consumption, and symptoms (both in the digestive tract and beyond).
In a recent study of 68 women with NCWS, 59% had concurrent gynecological symptoms (a higher percentage than healthy individuals, or those with diagnosed IBS or Celiac disease). Of those with symptoms, 29% reported recurrent cystitis, 25% reported menstrual cycle alterations, 16% reported recurrent vaginitis, and 6% reported painful intercourse.
When the researchers put those individuals on a wheat-free diet, 46% of patients with menstrual disorders and 36% with recurrent vaginitis reported that their symptoms resolved.
If you’ve tried a wheat-free or gluten-free diet, what has been your experience?
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10620-020-06184-8