The Effects of Gluten on Weight Gain, Hematological, Biochemical, and Various Endocrinological Parameters

Background/Aims: This study is aimed to compare the effects of nutrition which has been enriched with different amounts of gluten to gluten-free diets on weight gain, diabetogenic state, hematological, and biochemical parameters. Materials and Methods: A total of 40 newly weaned male Wistar albino rats used in the study were randomized into 4 different groups based on the gluten rations they were given. Following 12 weeks of diet they were killed and intracardiac blood samples were collected. Groups were identified as group 1 (n = 10): control group; normal rat ration containing wheat, group 2 (n = 10): gluten-free diet, group 3 (n = 10): ration containing medium level of gluten (normal rat diet + 6% vital gluten) and group 4 (n = 10): ration containing high level of gluten (normal rat diet + 12% vital gluten). Results: In groups 3 and 4, high-density lipoprotein was found to be higher than the other 2groups. However, when group 2 results were compared to the other groups; the highest T3, T4, creatinine and B12 levels and the lowest gluten-specific IgE level were observed. alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels were found to be higher in group 1 compared to the other 3 groups. No statistically significant difference was detected between the groups in terms of other parameters. Conclusion: This study provides evidence that a gluten-containing diet does not cause weight gain, has no diabetogenic effect, and also does not adversely affect general health in relation to hematological, biochemical, and various endocrinological parameters. Keywords: Gluten, gluten-free diet, weight gain, diabetogenic, glycemia, thyroid functions