Canker Sores Diet

Sensitivity to gluten, a protein found in wheat and other grains, has been associated with recurrent canker sores in some people. In preliminary trials, avoidance of gluten has reduced recurrent canker sores in people whether or not they had celiac disease, but a double-blind trial did not find gluten avoidance helpful to people with recurrent canker sores who did not have celiac disease. One preliminary trial suggested that people with recurrent canker sores, whose blood contains antibodies to gliadin (a component of gluten), may respond to a gluten-free diet even if they have no evidence of the tissue changes associated with celiac disease.

Other food sensitivities or allergies may also make canker sores worse. One preliminary trial found evidence of food allergy in half of a group of people with recurrent canker sores; avoidance of the offending foods resulted in improvement in almost all cases. While a double-blind study concluded that typical allergy mechanisms play only a minor role, people with recurrent canker sores should discuss the diagnosis and treatment of food sensitivities with a doctor. For some people, treating allergies may be a key component to restoring health.