AboutDr Alan Galbraith Expertise I can answer most questions on drugs, both medical and "recreational". Answers can be given in either technical or layperson terminology. My main areas of interest are psychiatric, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular drugs.
Experience I have been a university lecturer/head of department for almost thirty years, but am now retired. My research interests were alcohol, smoking and cardiovascular disease.
Organizations Institute of Biology, London.
Publications Author of "Fundamentals of Pharmacology" 5th Edition published in November 2007 by Pearson Education, Australia.
Question Hi Dr.
Although my bloodwork came back normal for celiac, my doctor says I might have gluten sensitivity which is causing my abdominal distension (not fat).
He said to avoid gluten for at least a month.
Also there are no drugs but I should take more vitamin D.
I am wondering about the mechanism involved in the distension-why does it happen? Is it an inflammatory response? Its not gas as I take gas relief pills.
Thanks for any help and any other advice you can offer.
Answer Dear Van
It is an inflammatory response which is quite complicated in its cause and effect. To put it simply, gluten harms the surface cells of the intestine making the absorption of water and digested foodstuffs difficult. This then leads to distension and usually diarrhoea. It may not be gluten in your case but your doctor obviously wants to exclude that cause before doing any other follow-ups. Without knowing what is actually causing your problem it is really futile to suggest any treatment at the moment. Let's see how you go in the next month.
