FAQCan a gluten-free diet help with vitiligo?

FAQ

It's very unlikely. We have specifically looked into claims that gluten-free diet may ease symptoms of vitiligo, or completely reverse it, and found no firm scientific evidence to support this theory.

Gluten is a storage protein in wheat, rye, and barley that puffs up when baked with yeast. It may promote inflammation and intestinal damage in the 0.7% of the population with celiac disease. Children and infants are most likely to show signs of a wheat allergy or gluten intolerance, which are different conditions with similar symptoms.

If you are wondering about gluten in your child's diet, or someone in your family has a history of food allergies, it is best to get a confirmed diagnosis before you start messing with diet. Two to three months of a gluten-restricted diet is enough to see if it can help your vitiligo.

Contrary to many beliefs, gluten-free diets often aren’t very healthy. For example, when teens go gluten-free, they are much more likely to become overweight and to eat less fiber, calcium and iron but consume more fat.

 

Suggested reading: Is there a special diet for vitiligo?

FAQOther Questions

  • Are there any famous people with vitiligo?

    Many celebrities have dealt with vitiligo while remaining in the public eye, maintaining a positive outlook, and having a successful career. Here are a few courageous famous peo...

  • What is vitiligo?

     Vitiligo (pronounced vit-ill-EYE-go) is a generally unpredictable skin disease that causes a gradual loss of skin color and overlying hair on different parts of the body. Cont...

  • Awareness Days Similar to World Vitiligo Day

    World Vitiligo Day, celebrated annually on June 25 since 2012, is a significant event dedicated to raising awareness about vitiligo and supporting those affected by the conditio...