Both Type I Diabetes and Celiac Disease are autoimmune conditions. In a recent study, at the Cambridge Institute for Medical Research at the University of Cambridge in the UK, researchers have suggested that both Type I Diabetes and Celiac Disease may in fact share a common underlying mechanism. Interestingly, in many cases people who have one condition often have the other, and vice versa. The study shows that both of the conditions share common characteristics in that the alterations of several of the chromosomal segments have similar trends. More specifically, these genetic modification result in the altered immune system.
Not all people with Type I Diabetes have the same genetic alteration. However, in my experience, when working with people who have Type I Diabetes I have generally prescribed a gluten-free nutrition as part of my overall treatment plan. I have found that it helps to regulate and maintain better blood sugar levels. Another reason to avoid gluten is that it is a very common allergen. Reducing the overall allergenic load helps to decrease the body’s immune response.