Gluten sensitivity, gallstones, and cholecystokinin have a common link. Cholecystokinin is a hormone that signals the gallbladder when it’s time to release bile, which is necessary for the digestion and absorption of fat[5]. However, in individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, cholecystokinin release is reduced[1][3]. This reduction in cholecystokinin release may be one of the key causes of the gallbladder malfunction that occurs in these individuals[3]. Additionally, some research has documented an altered biliary output and bile salt composition in individuals with celiac disease, which could theoretically promote the formation of gallstones[2]. Therefore, gluten sensitivity, celiac disease, and gallstones may be linked through the impaired release of cholecystokinin.

Citations: [1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8135131/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9612360/ [3] https://www.thepaleomom.com/the-link-between-gallbladder-disease-and-gluten-sensitivity/ [4] https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-celiac-disease-can-affect-your-gallbladder-4148347 [5] https://www.redriverhealthandwellness.com/undiagnosed-gluten-sensitivity-hashimotos-raises-risk-needing-gallbladder-surgery/ [6] https://kresserinstitute.com/little-known-connection-leaky-gut-gluten-intolerance-gallbladder-problems/