Gluten-free diet, a solution to improve heart health?

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality worldwide, with risk factors such as hypertension, abnormal lipid profiles, and chronic inflammation playing a major role in their progression. In this context, adopting a gluten-free diet (GFD) is gaining interest for its potential effects on cardiovascular health, though its precise impact remains to be clarified, especially among celiac and non-celiac patients with cardiovascular diseases. This study examines the possible benefits of a GFD for these patients.

What are the effects of a Gluten-Free Diet on cardiac risk factors?

To evaluate these effects, a systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 studies (2000 to 2022) was conducted. The study includes both celiac and non-celiac patients, measuring changes in blood lipid levels, blood pressure, and inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, CRP). The diet’s efficacy was assessed at baseline and after adopting the GFD, observing the following outcome variables: fasting glucose, insulin, HbA1c, HOMA-IR, total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, triglycerides, blood pressure, and C-reactive protein.

The analysis results reveal significant beneficial effects of the GFD on certain cardiovascular parameters:

• An average increase in HDL-C of 4.80 mg/dl in celiac patients after 48 weeks on a GFD;
• An average reduction in systolic blood pressure by 2.96 mmHg;
• A decrease in CRP levels by 0.40 mg/l, indicating reduced chronic inflammation.

The Gluten-Free Diet as a preventive tool for heart health

The results of this study suggest that a gluten-free diet may have a significant beneficial impact on cardiovascular health. While promising, further research is necessary to better understand its long-term effects, especially in non-celiac patients. Tailoring dietary choices to individual needs could also maximize its benefits in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.