Celiac News

Statement on the Safety of Oats

The safety of oats in celiac disease has been an issue of controversy. Over the last few years several studies have investigated the safety of oat consumption by individuals with celiac disease.

Most recently, a study has looked at the safety of oats for up to five years. There is clinical evidence that the consumption of 50-70 grams per day of pure, uncontaminated oats may be safe for adults with celiac disease.

In children, eating 20-25 grams of pure, uncontaminated oats seems to be safe in the short term. Long term safety information is not yet available.

It must be cautioned that the studies looking at safety of oats in celiac disease have involved a small number of subjects. The oats used were pure, free of any gluten contamination and the amount allowed per day was also limited.

Currently, uncontaminated oats are not available in Canada. Individuals with celiac disease who wish to add oats or oat products to their diet must ensure that the oats they are buying are free from gluten contamination. If any symptoms develop after starting oats, the individual must check with their physician.

References:

EK Janatuinene et al. No harm from five year ingestion of oats in celiac disease. Gut 2002; 50:332-335.

S EJ et al. A trial of oats in children with newly diagnosed celiac disease. Journal of Pediatrics 2000; 137:361-6.