Gluten Intolerance: 7 Signs You Can't Afford to Ignore

Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. For most people, gluten is harmless and a staple in their daily diet. However, for some individuals, eating gluten can trigger a range of health issues. This condition is known as gluten intolerance or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, and it affects approximately 6-7% of the population.

Gluten intolerance is often misunderstood and can be difficult to diagnose. Many people with this condition go undiagnosed for years, suffering from various symptoms without knowing the root cause. To raise awareness about this condition, here are seven signs of gluten intolerance that you can't afford to ignore.

1. Digestive Issues

One of the most common symptoms of gluten intolerance is digestive problems. When people with this condition consume gluten, their body reacts by producing an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine. This damage can lead to a host of digestive issues such as bloating, gas, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain.

If you frequently experience these symptoms after consuming gluten-containing foods, it's essential to get tested for gluten intolerance. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to further damage to your intestinal lining and affect your body's ability to absorb nutrients from the food you eat.

2. Fatigue

Feeling tired and fatigued is a common complaint among people with gluten intolerance. This is because the inflammation caused by consuming gluten can lead to malabsorption of nutrients from food, resulting in nutrient deficiencies. Additionally, people with gluten intolerance may also experience chronic fatigue due to the constant immune response triggered by eating gluten-containing foods.

If you find yourself feeling tired and sluggish even after getting adequate rest, it might be worth investigating if you have gluten intolerance.

3. Headaches

Many people with gluten intolerance report frequent headaches or migraines as one of their symptoms. The exact mechanism behind this is not fully understood, but it is believed that the inflammation caused by gluten can trigger these headaches. In some cases, eliminating gluten from the diet has been shown to reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches.

If you suffer from frequent headaches or migraines, it's worth considering if gluten could be the culprit.

4. Skin Problems

Your skin is a reflection of your overall health, and it can be affected by what you eat. People with gluten intolerance may experience skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis herpetiformis (a skin rash characterized by itchy blisters). These skin conditions can be a result of the inflammation caused by consuming gluten.

If you have tried various treatments for your skin issues with no success, it might be worth exploring if gluten intolerance could be the underlying cause.

5. Joint Pain

Joint pain and inflammation are common symptoms of many autoimmune diseases, including gluten intolerance. When people with this condition consume gluten, their immune system responds by attacking the gluten proteins, which can also lead to inflammation in other parts of the body. This inflammation can cause joint pain and stiffness, making it difficult to perform daily activities.

If you frequently experience joint pain and have ruled out other causes such as injury or arthritis, it's worth considering if gluten intolerance could be the cause.

6. Mood Disorders

Many people with gluten intolerance report mood changes as one of their symptoms. The connection between diet and mental health is well-established, and gluten intolerance is no exception. Consuming gluten can lead to inflammation in the gut, which can affect the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA – all of which play a role in regulating mood.

If you have unexplained mood swings or suffer from conditions like anxiety or depression, it's worth exploring if gluten intolerance could be contributing to these issues.

7. Numbness and Tingling

In some cases, gluten intolerance can lead to neurological symptoms such as numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. This is believed to be a result of the inflammation caused by gluten, which can damage the nerves in the body.

If you experience numbness and tingling frequently and have ruled out other causes, it might be worth getting tested for gluten intolerance.

In conclusion, gluten intolerance is a condition that should not be ignored. The symptoms can range from mild to severe, and if left untreated, it can lead to further health complications. If you suspect that you may have gluten intolerance, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional and get tested. Remember, your health is precious, and taking care of your body starts with paying attention to the signs it gives you. Don't ignore the signs – take action and make the necessary changes for a healthier, happier life.