The
“Wheat belly” controversy. Guandalini says, "The assertions made by Dr.
Davis (a cardiologist, not a nutritionist nor a gastroenterologist) are not
grounded in fact, let alone any evidence-based research." I have many points of concern to make –
1)
Why would he first point out that Dr Davis is not a nutritionist (presumable
inferring that Davis has no credibility) – surely, to denigrate the author is
an irrelevant argument. Also, without
foundation he suggests that Davis is inaccurate ("no knowledgeable
physician on the program to present a more accurate, balanced viewpoint.") Guandalini should keep to the facts with his
statements.
2)
Dr Davis has seen the harm of wheat in his patients - he reports that they do
remarkably well when they abandon wheat. His observations have merit. He is an experienced physician with
compassion for his patients. He asks why is half of America fat/obese and sick? He provides convincing arguments.
3)
Davis has subsequently accomplished the huge effort of extensive literature
research and presents a number of plausible mechanisms (that need testing). His book is extensively referenced with
up-to-date research.
4)
Guandalini attempts to ridicule the book by specifically bringing up the
morphine-like effect of gluten. He is apparently “stunned” by the statement
about the research on gluteo-morphine by Zioudrouj (1979). He dismisses this work because it was
published over 30 yeas ago - surely that does not mean the work is worthless or
wrong. Also, why would he call the
Journal of Biol Chem an “obscure” publication? Others have confirmed this morphine-like
effect: "Demonstration of high opioid-like activity in isolated peptides
from wheat gluten hydrolysates" (Huebner, 1984).
5)
It is easy to rubbish both a book and its author, but it is an entirely
different thing to comment constructively and add to the conversation. I challenge any other comments to completely
read the Wheat belly” book before being critical. You might be surprised.
6) Guandalini, concludes “CBS This Morning has
added to the confusion and did a disservice to its viewership to allow such
questionable information be portrayed as fact.”
Facts are changing with new knowledge. Because Guandalini disagrees,
does not mean that Davis does not have valid facts. Let’s not stifle debate. Yes, more double-blind randomized trails are required,
and this needs hypothesis testing.
7)
A red flag! By the way, in Seattle next week, my new book “Gluten: ZERO Global”
is to be launched. Like Davis, I have
also come to the conclusion that everyone would be better off eliminating
wheat/gluten from their diets. So, perhaps
I am also in line for a book review from Guandalini.
8)
By the way I am a pediatrician, gastroenterologist, and allergy specialist,
former Professor of Pediatrics, New Zealand (MD, MB. BS., FRACP). Author of “The Gluten Syndrome”.