A recent double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial (E Lionetti et al. J Pediatr 2018; 194: 116-22) examined the effect of adding oats to the diets of 79 children and compared this to a control group of 98 children; all participants had biopsy-proven celiac disease (CD).

Background:

• “A large body of evidence has so far suggested that the consumption of pure oats is safe in the vast majority of patients with celiac disease.”
• Still concerns persist.  In addition, the purity of oats cannot always be guaranteed.
• Previous studies were limited by small sample sizes, short follow-up, limited details regarding oat used, and lack of detail about cross-contamination.

This study sought to remedy prior trial deficiencies and examined clinical indices,  serology, and intestinal permeability after 6, 9 and 15 months.

Key finding:

• There were no statistically significant clinical, serologic, or intestinal permeability variables when comparing the oat group to the control group.

My take: Oats, free of cross contaminants, are safe to incorporate into a gluten-free diet for CD.

Canyon Rim

Disclaimer: These blog posts are for educational purposes only. Specific dosing of medications/diets (along with potential adverse effects) should be confirmed by prescribing physician/nutritionist.  This content is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a condition.