The relationship between obesity and Celiac Disease (CD) has been a subject of increasing interest in recent years, as both conditions continue to pose significant public health challenges globally. In people who are genetically susceptible to the condition, gluten consumption causes the autoimmune disease celiac disease, characterized by intestinal inflammation and villous atrophy. Conversely, obesity, a complex metabolic condition, is associated with excess adipose tissue accumulation and systemic inflammation. While these conditions may seem disparate, emerging research suggests a complex interplay between them.
This review aims to explore the intricate relationship between obesity and Celiac Disease, examining both potential causative mechanisms and clinical implications. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated conflicting evidence regarding the association between obesity and CD, with some indicating an increased risk among obese individuals while others report contradictory findings. Proposed mechanisms linking obesity and CD include alterations in gut microbiota composition, inflammatory cytokine profiles, and shared genetic susceptibility factors. Furthermore, the impact of obesity on CD diagnosis and management remains a topic of debate, with challenges such as underdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis in obese patients.
Understanding the relationship between obesity and Celiac Disease is crucial for optimizing patient care and public health strategies. Further research is warranted to elucidate this complex interplay's underlying mechanisms and clinical implications, ultimately facilitating more effective prevention and management strategies for both conditions.