Do celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity have the same effects on reproductive disorders?

OBJECTIVES

The wide spectrum of clinical symptoms of celiac disease (CD) is partly due to the malnourished state caused by the malabsorption of micro- and macronutrients. It has been suggested that fertility problems and obstetric complications may be a consequence of the endocrine disorders caused by selective nutrient deficiencies. The same selective nutrient deficiencies as in CD could be a reason for fertility problems in non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of nutrient deficiencies in CD and NCGS on fertility problems.

METHOD

A literature review of fertility problems in men and women and nutrient deficiencies associated with CD and NCGS, was performed up to May 2017.

RESULTS

The same selective nutrient deficiencies (folate, iron, vitamin B, and vitamin D) in CD and NCGS could be a reason for fertility problems.

CONCLUSIONS

CD is postulated to be considered in the preconceptional screening of patients with reproductive disorders, but for non-celiac gluten sensitivity, the effect on fertility is not yet proven.

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