Physical Activity in Patients with Celiac Disease: A Systematic Review
Irene Zapata-Martínez1,2, Marta Herrador-López2,3, Víctor Manuel Navas-López3
1Department of Pharmacology and Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Málaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain.
Nutrients
|July 28, 2026
Summary
Physical activity (PA) may benefit celiac disease (CD) patients by improving inflammation and quality of life. However, current evidence is limited, requiring more research to confirm PA
Area of Science:
- Immunology and Gastroenterology
- Exercise Science and Sports Medicine
Background:
- Celiac disease (CD) is an immune disorder triggered by gluten, managed by a gluten-free diet (GFD).
- Despite GFD, CD patients face ongoing inflammation, nutritional issues, and reduced quality of life.
- The role of physical activity (PA) in CD management is not well-established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review evidence on the association between PA and health outcomes in individuals with CD.
- To evaluate the impact of exercise interventions on metabolic, nutritional, clinical, and functional outcomes in CD patients.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines, including observational and experimental studies.
- Searches across major databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, SPORTDiscus) without restrictions.
- Risk of bias assessment using JBI and Cochrane RoB 2 tools.
Main Results:
- Fourteen studies (17 publications) were analyzed, predominantly cross-sectional.
- Higher PA levels showed potential links to improved body composition, inflammatory markers, quality of life, and psychological well-being.
- Inconsistent findings were noted for metabolic markers and bone mineral density, often influenced by dietary factors.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity shows promise as an adjunct therapy for celiac disease, particularly for functional and inflammatory aspects.
- Current evidence is preliminary, limited, and inconsistent, precluding definitive conclusions.
- High-quality, longitudinal studies, especially in pediatric populations, are needed to establish PA benefits and recommendations.
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