COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 402
Recovery and Prognosis
Can Gluten-Induced Damage Be Reversed?
Research suggests that much of the damage associated with
gluten sensitivity can be reversed with proper intervention,
particularly when identified early [36]:
Intestinal Recovery
Studies show that intestinal permeability (leaky gut) can normalize
following removal of trigger foods and appropriate gut repair
protocols. Restoration of normal zonulin levels and tight junction
integrity is possible in most cases, though the timeline varies based
on damage severity [37].
Neurological Recovery
Neuroinflammation and associated symptoms often improve
significantly with strict elimination of gluten and cross-reactive
foods, particularly when combined with targeted nutritional
support for neurological health. However, some long-standing
neurological damage may be only partially reversible [38].
Autoimmunity Modulation
Antibody levels to both gluten peptides and self-tissues typically
decline over time with strict dietary compliance. In some cases,
particularly when caught early, autoimmune processes may be
halted or significantly attenuated [39].
Recovery Timeline
The timeline for improvement varies based on several factors:
● Duration of exposure - Longer exposure to trigger foods
generally requires longer recovery periods
● Pattern of antibodies - Different antibody patterns suggest
different recovery trajectories
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