Final answer:
Not all people in the USA who avoid gluten have antibodies against it. The presence of antibodies is primarily associated with celiac disease, which affects about 1% of the population. Many may follow a gluten-free diet for other reasons not related to the immune response against gluten.
Step-by-step explanation:
Do most people in the USA who avoid gluten have antibodies against gluten? This question relates to the body's immune response and the presence of antibodies in conditions like celiac disease. Generally, for a diagnosis of celiac disease, serological tests are conducted to detect IgA antibodies against components of gluten and the transglutaminase enzyme, as well as autoantibodies to endomysium. Those who test positive for these antibodies and exhibit damage to the duodenal mucosa, confirmed by endoscopy and biopsy, are diagnosed with celiac disease and must adopt a gluten-free diet.
However, not all individuals who avoid gluten do so because they have antibodies against it or celiac disease. In fact, amongst the general population in the USA, a significant number of individuals follow a gluten-free diet for other reasons, such as non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), perceived health benefits, or personal preference. It is estimated that only about 1% of the population actually has celiac disease, and thus, would test positive for the antibodies related to this autoimmune disorder.
While gluten-free diets are essential for people with celiac disease, others without diagnosed gluten-related disorders may not experience any health benefits from such a diet and could potentially risk nutritional deficiencies. It is crucial for individuals to consult a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes, such as eliminating gluten, to ensure these changes are truly beneficial for their health.