Your brain may need help recovering after diagnosis and starting the gluten-free diet.
How can a problem in the gut impact psychological functioning? What is the gut-brain connection and which areas of psychological functioning are most affected by celiac disease?
There is a big link between celiac disease and psychological function. Anxiety, depression and fatigue are common issues reported in celiac disease patients prior to diagnosis. Side effects of celiac disease can affect the brain in various ways, lowering quality of life for those suffering from untreated celiac disease or even after diagnosis.
Negative mental impacts can happen to those with celiac disease for a variety of reasons, including:
Research shows that celiac can manifest itself through psychological problems impacting thinking, emotions and more.
Your brain may need help recovering after diagnosis and starting the gluten-free diet.
Some studies reveal complete remission of depression, anxiety and irritability with gluten-free diet, especially with younger populations. Other studies, especially on depression, are associated with mixed results.
Some possible reasons for continued celiac disease-related mental health problems after starting the gluten-free diet:
After many years of living in a bubble of discomfort, many forget to really live moments of well-being, satisfaction or joy. An official diagnosis can bring relief to many; however, others can feel emotionally secluded after starting the gluten-free diet, feeling isolated socially or having anxiety or frustration over complying with the gluten-free diet.
Some people reconnect with well-being through mindfulness exercises where they learn to “inhabit” moments of well-being. Meditation has been found to increase cortical thickness. Studies show that connecting with others also enhances people’s ability to handle the gluten-free diet. Some forms of counseling or brief therapy can provide personalized education and support with regards to integrating the gluten-free diet in the particularities of your life.
Information on this page is based partially on the Beyond Celiac webinar, “It’s Not Just In Your Head: The Psychological Impacts of Celiac Disease,” featuring Marie-Nathalie Beaudoin, PhD, training director at Bay Area Family Therapy & Training Associates. Note: This webinar was held when Beyond Celiac was still known as the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness.
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