Q Is it true that nobody can properly metabolise gluten?
In short, yes. For many people it appears that humans lack the enzyme needed to metabolise/process gluten. Studies have shown that gluten/gliadin appears to be stable and not broken down by all gastric, pancreatic and intestinal brush-border membrane proteases (enzymes). This confirms that gluten is very poorly digested and passes through more or less untouched in the vast majority of human beings. However, in a small amount of the population (about 1%) gluten (specifically gliadin), triggers an inflammatory response.
About our expert: Nutritionist Maria Bez is a registered nutritionist with the British Association of Nutritional Therapists. She has a BSC degree in Nutritional Medicine and practices from Nourish, her clinic in Bath. As well as attending to clients, she writes and speaks on all matters relating to nutrition and lifestyle. She is dedicated to providing individuals with information and advice to take control of their own health and well-being. www.nourishcentre.co.uk.
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