
Hansson explained that researchers detected elevated levels of celiac disease-associated antibodies in children with recent onset Type I diabetes.
“The presence of autoantibodies against tissue transglutaminase (anti-tTG) implies that celiac disease was present already at the time of Type 1 diabetes onset in all children having both diseases,” he said. “Hence, celiac disease may precede and cause Type 1 diabetes in children with both diseases.”
The researchers suggest that a “change in diet in individuals with genetic susceptibility may reduce the risk of developing Type 1 diabetes.” They add that “all Type 1 diabetes children and their siblings should be routinely screened for celiac disease-related antibodies.”