Beyond the Grain: Navigating the Intersection of Gluten-Free Diets, Celiac Disease, and Cardiovascular Health

Celiac disease (CD) is a complex autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten exposure in genetically susceptible individuals. This scoping review explores the intricate relationship between CD and cardiovascular manifestations, aiming to understand the impact of gluten-free diets (GFD) on cardiac health. A comprehensive search resulted in four pertinent studies revealing structural and functional abnormalities in the cardiovascular system of untreated CD patients. Among patients who did not adhere to a GFD, electrocardiogram abnormalities such as prolonged QT intervals and increased predisposition to arrhythmias were noted. Studies identified a significant prevalence of CD in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy or myocarditis, suggesting a potential association. GFD and immunosuppression were shown to improve cardiac function and reduce arrhythmias in CD patients exhibiting cardiovascular manifestations. However, limitations such as small sample sizes and incongruous cohorts make it difficult to assess the direct impact of GFD interventions on cardiac health. Future research should prioritize larger, longitudinal studies to fully understand mechanisms and treatment strategies. This review emphasizes the intricate interplay between CD and cardiac health, emphasizing the importance of early detection, comprehensive management, and further research for optimal clinical outcomes.