Part 5 Of 5 Part Series: Some Final Thoughts About Gluten And Scoliosis

January 11, 2011 · Filed Under Scoliosis 

This is the fifth part in a 5 part series that discusses how gluten could be one of the underlying triggers for scoliosis. In the first post, I discussed whether an association between gluten and scoliosis could exist, described scoliosis, and I provided an outline for the series. In the second post, I discussed how gluten may trigger antibodies against transglutaminases (involved in bone health), antibodies against bone cells, nutrient deficiencies, low melatonin levels, arthritis and how this may lead to scoliosis. In the third post, I discussed how a gluten intolerance may cause scoliosis in various age groups and the fourth post described how lectins may contribute to scoliosis. Today, I would like to share some final thoughts about the link between gluten and scoliosis.


Scoliosis can be disabling and can lead to many complications. Some have to undergo corrective surgery which may have associated risks as well. This can negatively impact self esteem (especially with older children and teenagers), mobility, choice of sports, daily activities, and can affect their overall quality of life, especially in severe cases. If the underlying culprit is gluten or lectins, then a gluten-free or paleolithic diet may be the perfect primary prevention. Many years of suffering could be avoided.

Hopefully, future tests will offer blood tests for IgA and IgG antibodies against tissue transglutaminase 2 and factor XIIIA for all patients with scoliosis. As well, antibodies against various forms of lectins may become widely available at some point and can help to clarify whether a lectin intolerance is present. For now, people who have scoliosis may want to consider testing for celiac disease, dermatitis herpetiformis (with skin symptoms) and non-celiac gluten intolerance. As well, a paleolithic diet could be considered.

I hope this series helps to increase awareness about this association. Over the last six years, many people have asked me whether I think there could be a connection. I believe that a gluten and lectin intolerance could lead to the development of scoliosis. Increased awareness, early diagnosis, and the implementation of a nutrient rich gluten-free or paleolithic diet could be the perfect primary prevention. Unfortunately, it may not correct the damage that has already occurred, but it may offer a drug-free and surgery-free approach to prevent further damage or as a primary prevention technique.