Coeliac/Celiac Disease and Oats
Is it safe for people with Celiac disease to eat oats?

A study by the Finnish researchers, published in 1995, remains the most persuasive in suggesting that most adult coeliacs can tolerate moderate amounts of oats in their diets, certainly in the short-term. This was endorsed by the results of a 5-year follow-up study, also in Finland. Reservations include the fact that the amount of toxic protein – the prolamin called avenin – in oats is relatively small compared with the amounts of relevant toxic prolamins present in wheat, barley and rye – hence the quantity of oats consumed may be critical. It is likely that, as with all the harmful substances in coeliac disease, individual reactions will vary as some patients are much more sensitive than others. There is a warning that cross-contamination of cereals can occur during harvesting, transportation, storage, milling and food processing, although oats produced by dedicated oat-millers are more likely to be gluten free. · Moderate amounts of oats may be consumed by most Coeliacs without risk. This also applies to people with dermatitis herpetiformis, but with evidence in children is less convincing. · Severe coeliacs should probably not use oats. · Care must be taken to use uncontaminated oat products.

Questions and Answers

Q. What is a moderate amount of oats?
A. Less than 50g oats per day i.e. one reasonable serving.

Q. Who are most coeliacs?
A. Fit and healthy adults, well-established on a strict gluten-free diet.

Q. What about children?
A. Coeliac children must see their own paediatric gastroenterologist to discuss the situation in detail.

Q. Who are severe coeliacs?
A. Definitely, anyone who may be super-sensitive or who has not responded to a strict gluten-free diet. Plus, anyone who appears to react to gluten or who is unwell.

Q. Where can I find suitable oat products that are gluten-free?
A. Listed in the Appendix section of the charity’s Food and Drink Directory.

The charity would advise members not to make any significant changes in their diets without prior discussion with their own health care team.

Source of article : Coeliac UK, the Charity Supporting People with Gluten Intolerance

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