Effects of a gluten-free diet on weight reduction in Iranian non-celiac, non-gluten sensitive adult women undergoing an 8-week exercise program: a pilot study

Background: The gluten-free diet (GFD) may aid weight loss, but its effects on non-celiac individuals are not well-studied. Objectives: This pilot study compared the GFD’s effectiveness to a low-calorie diet (LCD) for weight loss in non-celiac Iranian women over an 8-week exercise program. Methods: A total of 126 women participated, 61 followed the LCD with exercise and therapies, while 65 adhered to the GFD with the same exercises. Data on demographics and body measurements were gathered via a survey. Results: The GFD group showed significant reductions in body weight (p = 0.04), waist circumference (p = 0.006), and abdominal circumference (p = 0.0004). In contrast, the LCD group exhibited a significant reduction in waist circumference only (p = 0.03). A significant inverse correlation was found between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and the rate of weight reduction (r = −0.33, p = 0.006). Conclusion: Combining the GFD with exercise and therapies may effectively promote weight loss, especially in Iranian women.