Study Reveals Increased Arsenic Exposure in Children on Gluten-Free Diet for Celiac Disease

A recent study has highlighted a concerning issue regarding children diagnosed with celiac disease who transition to a gluten-free diet. Research indicates that these children may experience elevated levels of arsenic shortly after making dietary changes.

Conducted by a team from Boston Children's Hospital, the study examined urinary arsenic concentrations among children aged 2 to 18 years who were newly diagnosed with celiac disease. The researchers analyzed samples collected before and after six months on a gluten-free diet, focusing on a cohort of 35 children confirmed through biopsy.

The findings revealed a notable increase in median urinary arsenic levels, rising from 3.3 µg/L to 13.6 µg/L after six months of adhering to a gluten-free diet. The study also identified factors such as a family history of celiac disease and Hispanic ethnicity as being associated with higher urinary arsenic concentrations.

Despite the significant rise in arsenic levels, the study's authors noted that the measured concentrations remained below the toxic threshold for acute exposure. However, they emphasized the need for further investigation into the potential clinical implications of chronic arsenic exposure at these levels.

The researchers suggested that the increased arsenic exposure could be linked to the heightened consumption of rice, a common staple in gluten-free diets. Given that rice can absorb arsenic from soil and water, its prevalence in gluten-free products may be a contributing factor to the observed increase in urinary arsenic concentrations.

As more families opt for gluten-free options for health reasons, particularly for managing celiac disease, this study sheds light on an important public health consideration. It raises awareness about the potential hidden risks associated with gluten-free diets, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children.

Moving forward, health professionals and families should be mindful of the foods incorporated into gluten-free diets and consider monitoring for arsenic exposure, especially in children.