BioCeuticals Article

Gluten-digesting enzymes: a breakthrough for the gluten sensitive



Gluten-digesting enzymes: a breakthrough for the gluten sensitive
Date: 2015-01-21
Author: Jennifer Joseph
Access: Public


The negative effects of a diet high in gluten are increasingly becoming clear to researchers, practitioners and gluten-sensitive individuals.

A prospective five-year study, by Monash University, followed 72 patients on a gluten-free diet. Results showed that their gut health improved significantly after one year on a gluten-free diet, with a continuous improvement up to five years later.1

The study reinforced that there were clear long-term benefits in following the diet, even for those who don’t present with gastrointestinal symptoms, said lead researcher Dr Evan Newham. 2

Figures show 7% of the population are gluten sensitive, and more than 20% are avoiding gluten and now buying gluten-free products.3

However, individuals who are gluten-sensitive may find it difficult to follow a restrictive diet – especially during festivities or family celebrations – or occasionally consume a gluten-containing food by mistake. On these occasions, ask your healthcare practitioner about a combination of enzymes to more effectively metabolise gluten.

Gluten is a large protein that is comprised of two fractions, the glutenins and gliadins. Both fractions are rich in4 proline and glutamine and have different levels of solubility.

Present in wheat, rye and barley, gluten makes up a large portion of many people’s daily diets in the form of bread, pasta, cereals, biscuits, crackers, sauces and condiments.

A blend of protease enzymes may assist in the normal digestion of proteins and the maintenance of healthy digestive function, helping to metabolise specific proteins such as gluten and gliadin.

If you’re struggling to adapt to a life with gluten sensitivity, a proteolytic enzyme blend may be a good option to help break apart difficult-to-digest foods.

To find a healthcare practitioner in your local area, visit our Find A Practitioner service!

References

  1. 6minutes. Study shows healing effect of gluten free diet. Cirrus Media 29 Oct 2014. Viewed 21 Nov 2014, http://www.6minutes.com.au/news/latest-news/study-shows-healing-effect-of-gluten-free-diet
  2. Elliot K. Going gluten free. Australia’s Reader’s Digest 2014. Viewed 12 Nov 2014, www.readersdigest.com.au/gluten-free
  3. Carey K. “Gluten free” booming despite misconception of health implications. Australian Food News 2012, ausfoodnews.com. au/2012/10/29/%E2%80%9Cgluten-free%E2%80%9D-booming- despite-misconception-of-health-implications.html
  4. Kok MS, Gillis R, Ang S, et al. Can dietary fibre help provide safer food products for sufferers of gluten intolerance? A well-established biophysical probe may help towards providing an answer. BMC Biophysics 2012;5:10.