Gluten-Free Diet
A strict gluten-free diet is the primary treatment for gluten ataxia, a neurological manifestation of gluten sensitivity where antibodies attack the cerebellum causing balance and coordination problems. Early diagnosis and dietary intervention can halt progression and sometimes lead to improvement in ataxia symptoms, though established neurological damage may be irreversible. The diet must be maintained lifelong to prevent further cerebellar damage and worsening of neurological symptoms.
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Confidence: Moderate
Key foods: Nutrient-dense gluten-free grains like quinoa and buckwheat, B-vitamin rich foods like eggs and leafy greens, omega-3 rich fish like salmon, nuts and seeds, legumes, fresh fruits and vegetables
How does Gluten-Free Diet assist with Gluten Ataxia: Gluten ingestion triggers production of antibodies (particularly anti-gliadin antibodies) that cross-react with Purkinje cells in the cerebellum, causing inflammatory damage and neuronal loss. These antibodies may also affect cerebellar blood vessels and cause direct neurotoxicity. Eliminating gluten stops the autoimmune attack, prevents further cerebellar damage, and may allow some functional recovery if implemented before extensive neuronal loss has occurred.