Gluten Intolerance

Gluten Intolerance

Gluten intolerance, or non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), occurs when you get sick from consuming gluten, which is a form of protein. In most cases, you can experience symptoms like fatigue, nausea, or bloating.

What is gluten?

Gluten is a protein present in wheat, barley, rye, and other grains. It’s present in many common foods and beverages, including pasta, cereal, and beer. Gluten can also be found in items such as vitamins, cosmetics, and even certain medications.

Symptoms

Gluten intolerance can cause a variety of symptoms that may persist for hours or even days after gluten consumption. They include:

  • Abdominal discomfort
  • Anxiety
  • Anemia
  • Bloating or excessive gas
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Difficulty focusing, or brain fog
  • Depression
  • Fatigue
  • Joint pain
  • Headaches
  • Skin rashes
  • Nausea and vomiting

Additionally, many individuals with gluten intolerance also experience irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Causes

The precise causes of gluten intolerance are not fully understood. Some studies suggest that individuals may be insensitive to gluten itself but rather to a specific carbohydrate present in various foods. Their bodies may fail to absorb this carbohydrate properly, leading to its fermentation in the gut and causing discomfort.

Additional research indicates that wheat could impact the digestive tract lining in certain individuals. This lining naturally prevents the leakage of bacteria into the intestines, but in persons with gluten intolerance, it may not function correctly. As a result, bacteria can enter the bloodstream or liver, leading to inflammation.

Tests and Diagnosis

To diagnose gluten intolerance, your doctor will begin by reviewing your medical history and asking about the symptoms. If gluten intolerance is suspected, the following steps are recommended:

  • Step 1: Following a diet that includes gluten for around 6 weeks. During this period, the doctor will conduct blood and skin tests to rule out conditions like wheat allergy or celiac disease. Currently, there is no specific test for gluten intolerance.
  • Step 2: If neither a wheat allergy nor celiac disease is present, your provider will recommend eliminating gluten from your diet for about six weeks. During this period, you’ll need to track your symptoms to see if any improvements occur.
  • Step 3: If symptoms improve on a gluten-free diet, gluten will be gradually reintroduced. If your symptoms return, there is a chance that you have a gluten intolerance.

Treatment and Management

Currently, there isn’t a cure for gluten intolerance; however, most people experience symptom relief by adopting a gluten-free diet. It’s important to work with your GP and a dietitian to create a well-balanced eating plan.

Furthermore, you might want to discuss the possibility of incorporating probiotics to your diet with your provider. Probiotics boost the healthy bacteria in your gut and may alleviate symptoms like gas, bloating, or constipation.

Some studies suggest that certain enzymes might aid in gluten digestion, though this treatment is still under examination. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider before consuming any enzymes.

Gluten Intolerance Prevention

While it’s not possible to prevent gluten intolerance, there are steps you can take to manage symptoms. Work with your physician to develop a treatment plan that’s tailored to your needs.

Living With

How to make living with gluten intolerance easy?

Managing gluten intolerance involves several approaches, including:

  • Following a low-fat, high-fiber diet.
  • Regularly getting lab tests to look for high cholesterol, anemia, and vitamin and nutritional deficiencies.
  • Knowing the drinks, foods, and ingredients containing gluten to make avoiding them easier.
  • Carefully reading food and beverage labels.

Conclusion

Gluten intolerance can cause discomfort after ingesting gluten, including symptoms like bloating, nausea, and gas. Individuals with gluten intolerance often find relief by following a gluten-free diet. However, gluten-free diets can pose some health risks, so it’s essential to collaborate with your GP and a dietitian to create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

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