It doesn’t matter who we are, we probably know somebody who is trying to avoid gluten in their diet. In fact, it is almost trendy to say that you want food that is gluten-free and most people really don’t give it much thought other than it is a dietary choice. When you really begin to look under the surface, however, you start to see that it is more than a choice for some people, it is a necessity.
The problem with avoiding gluten is that it is found in almost everything that we eat. Sure, it is possible to avoid it but you will be avoiding anything that was made with wheat flour, including pasta, cereal, and bread items. Even some soup and salad dressings contain gluten because they are made with flour and trace amounts of gluten can be found in many other types of foods. The bottom line is; if you are trying to avoid gluten in your diet, you are going to have to be careful with everything that you eat.
People avoid gluten for a number of different reasons but sometimes, it is because they are sensitive to it. For some people, an autoimmune disorder, known as celiac disease, can cause them much discomfort and other problems when gluten is consumed. Even if you don’t have celiac disease, however, you might be reacting to gluten in a bad way because you are sensitive to it.
One of the problems with gluten sensitivity is that it is often overlooked. The person who is suffering from it will continue to eat foods that contain gluten and wonder why they are bloated, itching and tired all of the time.
It is only after they make the connection between gluten and their symptoms that they can truly begin to feel better. Often, removing gluten from the diet will quickly reverse the symptoms of gluten sensitivity. Most people wonder why they didn’t try it before. The following symptoms of gluten sensitivity can really point you in the right direction. Listen to what your body is telling you and you will benefit from it.
1. Abnormal Immune Function
The gastrointestinal tract and saliva contain something that is known as IgA antibodies. When we are experiencing any type of disease, these antibodies kick into action and attack the disease. It doesn’t need to be a serious disease for them to take effect; even the flu or the common cold can cause them to get active. When the body is reacting to gluten, it causes those antibodies to work inappropriately.
2. Fatigue
Many studies have shown that gluten intolerance can cause fatigue. It happens because the body suffers from inflammation and the energy that is used to keep us alert is misappropriated.
3. Headaches
Headaches and migraine headaches may be a problem for those who suffer from gluten sensitivity. According to one study, 56% of those who were intolerant to gluten also suffered from migraines.
4. Muscle and Joint Aches
This is another issue that is associated with inflammation due to gluten intolerance. When the body is inflamed, it can lead to muscle aches and problems with the joints. Left unchecked, this could even lead to long-term problems.
5. Brain Fog
Most people with celiac disease will also suffer from brain fog but it can also be a problem for those who are suffering from gluten intolerance. A study published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry pointed to immunoglobulins, a type of antibody, as causing a drop in cognitive function.
6. Weight Gain
A fast or sudden problem with weight gain may be associated with the inflammation that goes along with gluten sensitivity. In may also be due to malabsorption that could be part of this issue as well. When gluten is removed from the diet, it should cause this issue to stabilize quickly.
7. Dental Health
A study that was published in the BMS Gastroenterology pointed to the association of gluten intolerance and mouth ulcers/canker sores. Low calcium may be to blame due to the malabsorption found in individuals with gluten sensitivity.
8. Skin Problems
A variety of skin problems, including acne, dermatitis, and eczema may be associated with gluten sensitivity. By removing gluten from the diet, it can help to reduce these problems quickly.
If you are experiencing one of these issues, it does not mean that you are automatically suffering from gluten intolerance. If you have a number of these problems, however, removing gluten from your diet may just help to clear things up for you quickly. It is a simple test to run but it could result in extreme benefits.
However, if you think that you might suffer from a gluten or wheat-related condition, you need to talk to your doctor before trying to diagnose yourself or beginning a treatment on your own. A specialist could run specific tests and speak with you about your history and then reach a diagnosis. Before seeing a doctor, it’s important not to begin a wheat-free or gluten-free diet. The tests results might come back with a false negative and the doctor will not be able to have a proper understanding of what is causing your symptoms. According to Beyond Celiac group, over 83% of Americans who have celiac disease are not diagnosed and unaware that they have this condition.
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