Yes, gluten allergy is relatively rare in India compared to other parts of the world.
And now, more closely
Yes, gluten allergy is relatively rare in India compared to other parts of the world. While it is difficult to obtain accurate statistics on the prevalence of gluten allergies in India, various studies and reports suggest that it is not as common as in Western countries.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, and can cause adverse reactions in some individuals. In India, the consumption of wheat-based products is high due to the popularity of chapatis, rotis, and other wheat-based breads. Despite this, gluten allergies are not as widely reported.
One possible reason for the relatively low prevalence of gluten allergies in India could be the traditional methods of preparing wheat-based foods. According to Dr. M.S. Kanwar, Head of Paediatrics at Rockland Hospital in New Delhi, “Indian cooking methods involve fermentation, soaking, and germination, which may break down the gluten and make it more easily digestible.” This could potentially reduce the likelihood of developing allergic reactions to gluten.
Furthermore, a diet rich in other grains and cereals, such as rice, millet, and sorghum, is common in many regions of India. These grains do not contain gluten and serve as alternatives to wheat-based products. This diversity in grain consumption may contribute to the lower prevalence of gluten allergies.
To provide a clearer picture, here are some interesting facts related to gluten allergies:
- Celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, affects around 1% of the worldwide population. However, its prevalence is higher in Western countries compared to India.
- Gluten sensitivity or non-celiac gluten sensitivity is another condition that can cause similar symptoms to celiac disease. Its prevalence is also relatively low in India compared to the West.
- In recent years, there has been an increase in awareness and diagnosis of gluten-related disorders in India, leading to a small but growing population of individuals with gluten allergies.
While gluten allergies may be less common in India, it is still essential for individuals who suspect they have a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis. Understanding one’s dietary needs and adjusting accordingly can greatly improve overall health and well-being.
Table: Examples of Gluten-Free Grains and Flours
| Grains | Flours |
| Rice | Rice flour |
| Millet | Millet flour |
| Sorghum | Sorghum flour |
| Quinoa | Quinoa flour |
| Buckwheat | Buckwheat flour |
| Amaranth | Amaranth flour |
| Corn | Corn flour |
| Oats (certified gluten-free) | Oat flour |
Remember, it is always advisable to support any medical concerns with advice from healthcare professionals for accurate information and guidance.
Video related “Is gluten allergy common in India?”
In this YouTube video titled “Gluten Sensitivity vs Celiac Disease – Doctor Explains,” the speaker discusses the difference between celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease triggered by sensitivity to gluten, while gluten sensitivity is a reaction to wheat proteins. The speaker suggests that the increase in gluten intolerance in the United States compared to other countries may be due to pesticide use, specifically glyphosate, found in products like Roundup. Glyphosate has been linked to gut health issues and the speaker speculates that some Americans may be experiencing intolerance due to Roundup intolerance rather than true gluten sensitivity. The video also explores the concept of leaky gut and discusses the potential health effects of glyphosate, including obesity and cancer.
Other approaches of answering your query
Further, Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) says that more than 10 percent of Indians have gluten intolerance. It’s more common in north and east India than its primarily rice-eating southern parts.
Gluten intolerance is common in India, with more than 10% of Indians having gluten intolerance. It is more common in north and east India than in the primarily rice-eating southern parts. Celiac disease is a common problem in North and East India, but not so much in South India. According to a review article from 2022, the incidence of celiac disease in India is 1.04%, with the North at 1.83% and the South at 0.1%. However, celiac disease and the concept of “gluten” are not widely recognized in India, and many people with celiac disease are underdiagnosed.