A recent review of double-blind, placebo-controlled trials (n=10) (J Molina-Infante, A Carroccio. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2017; 15: 339-48) showed that most individuals who consider themselves to have nonceliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) do not show gluten-specific symptoms.  Only 16% (38 of 231) showed symptoms specific to gluten ingestion.  In addition, the authors describe a 40% nocebo response (similar or increased symptoms in response to placebo).

My take: Due to the absence of a reliable test for NCGS, there are a lot of people who avoid gluten when gluten is not the main culprit for their symptoms.

On a related topic –NPR reports on colleges developing a New Niche -Gluten-free Dining Rooms.  An excerpt:

An estimated 5 to 10 percent of college students have celiac disease or other gluten-related disorders, according to Dr. Alessio Fasano, director of the Center for Celiac Research and Treatment in Boston…

There’s also a marketing angle in responding to the rising rate of gluten-related diagnoses. “Families tell us that Kent has become a top contender because this option exists

Also from NPR –For People With Celiac Disease -Could a Viral Infection Be a Trigger?

Related blog posts:

• Is a Gluten-Free Diet a Healthy Diet for those without Celiac Disease?
• An Unexpected Twist for “Gluten Sensitivity” | gutsandgrowth
• The Science Behind IBS Dietary Interventions | gutsandgrowth
• Gluten sensitivity without celiac disease | gutsandgrowth
• Food choices, FODMAPs, and gluten haters | gutsandgrowth

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