Celiac Disease and ADD

Celiac disease may be the cause of ADD and ADHD behavior issues.

ADD and ADHD are two different names for the same basic problem-Attention Deficit Disorder or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Both are conditions found mostly in children who have poor attention spans, are easily distracted and often tend to be both hyperactive and impulsive. They also have poor concentration, have trouble focusing, have memory problems and are often irritable which causes many problems in school settings as well as at home. When left untreated, schoolwork and school performance suffers.

It is estimated that between 3-5 per cent of preschool and school have the disease.And celiac disease may be one of the causes.

Data from a number of studies indicates that gluten may contribute to ADHD in children. And when gluten is removed from the diet of the ADD or ADHD child, many of the symptoms just disappear and the child’s behavior improves.

Doctors believe that the reason for this is that celiac disease can impair the breakdown of certain proteins which when lacking in the body lead to hyperactivity.

To be on the save side, many doctors are now recommending the removal of gluten (and dairy products) from the diets of those with ADD and ADHD. More research is needed to confirm and prove this linkage.