Is Gluten Intolerance Why You're Depressed and Anxious?

Medically reviewed by Priyanka Chugh, MD

People with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity often report depression as one of their symptoms. Many studies have documented this link.

Some researchers have speculated that depression in people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity may simply stem from having a chronic health problem, in the same way people with chronic health issues such as arthritis and diabetes tend to get depressed. Others think changes in the brain may occur that are related to the malabsorption of nutrients in the small intestine.

This article discusses the link between depression and gluten in people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

The Risks of a Gluten-Free Diet

Following a gluten-free diet can cause nutritional deficiencies, which may lead to other physical and mental health problems. This is why it is important to follow a gluten-free diet only when your healthcare provider has determined that you have a medical condition that requires it.

Is Depression Common in Celiac Disease?

Studies have linked celiac disease to several mental health conditions, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and depression.

There's some evidence that depression in people with celiac disease is connected to changes in the brain. These changes are potentially triggered because intestinal damage precludes absorption of certain nutrients that are important for brain function.

Other research suggests that gluten may indirectly affect serotonin, a hormone that plays a role in mood, by reducing the concentration of tryptophan in the brain. Tryptophan is an amino acid that is important for the synthesis of serotonin.

Takeaway

Vitamins folic acid and B-6 both play a role in mood and neurotransmitter health, and many people newly diagnosed with celiac disease are deficient in those nutrients. A few studies have found that vitamin B-6 supplementation can significantly improve depression and anxiety symptoms.

Other researchers believe gluten may have a direct effect on the brain. Though this hypothesis requires further study, it could explain why people with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity will both experience depressive symptoms after eating gluten.

Regardless of the reason, research is clear that both adults and children diagnosed with celiac disease show high levels of depression. Studies have found that around 35% of people diagnosed with celiac disease also have symptoms of depression. Studies have also found that children with celiac disease have rates of mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and ADHD that are 1.2 to 1.8 times greater than those without celiac disease.

Can gluten cause depression even if can you don't have a gluten sensitivity?

Depression is one of the more common symptoms of non-celiac gluten sensitivity, a newly-recognized condition that involves a different immune system reaction to gluten ingestion than celiac disease. A 2018 study found higher levels of depression among people with gluten sensitivity who underwent a gluten challenge, but the authors couldn't explain why this occurred.

Can Gluten Intolerance Cause Anxiety?

Studies have also found a link between celiac disease and anxiety, with a prevalence of around 63%. Some researchers feel that anxiety symptoms may be related to feelings of not having control over the disease and the challenges of adhering to a strict gluten-free diet.

It is unclear whether eating gluten-free can help with anxiety. Some studies have found that in people with celiac disease, the difficulties of following a gluten-free diet may contribute to anxiety, particularly when eating out, traveling, and on occasions where food is served. In people with celiac disease, around 81% don't eat out, and around 38% don't travel because they are anxious about following a gluten-free diet while eating away from home.

Is the Suicide Rate Also Higher Among Celiacs?

An older study published in 2011 found a moderately increased risk of suicide in people with celiac disease. However, more recent research hasn't found similar results. A 2023 analysis of data, for example, found no statistically significant increase in either suicides or suicide attempts.

Other research found a 3.32 times higher mortality rate for children with celiac disease vs. children without celiac disease, but it attributed this increase to an increased risk of accidents and violence as well as suicide. Some researchers think this may be because a celiac disease diagnosis negatively affects adolescent behaviors like risk-taking and defiance of authority.

Does Going Gluten-Free Reduce Depression?

Adhering to a gluten-free diet may help improve symptoms of depression. One study found a reduction of depression symptoms in children with celiac disease who were able to follow a strict gluten-free diet. The study also found that those who did not follow the gluten-free diet did not experience a reduction in symptoms.

A review study found a moderate association between poor adherence to a gluten-free diet and more severe symptoms of depression. However, the study also noted that future research needs to establish more reliable ways to measure adherence, especially since self-reported adherence may not always be accurate.

Takeaway

If you or someone you know are having suicidal thoughts, dial 988 to contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and connect with a trained counselor.

If you're suffering from persistent depression despite following the gluten-free diet, talk to your healthcare provider about getting a referral to a mental health expert. In some cases, medication may help alleviate your depression.

If you notice a pattern of depressive feelings following accidental gluten ingestion, it may help to eliminate more gluten from your diet. The tiny amount of gluten in "gluten-free" processed foods is a common culprit.

Related: If I'm Eating Gluten-Free, Why Am I Still Getting Sick?

Summary

People with celiac disease or gluten intolerance often report symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. Although there is a clear link between these conditions and depression, it's unclear what the cause is.

Some researchers believe poor nutrient absorption may have an effect on the brain. Others believe that gluten may impact the brain directly. There is also some evidence that people with these conditions may experience depression and anxiety related to the difficulties of following a gluten-free diet. 

Read the original article on Verywell Health.