Gluten intolerance can present itself in many ways, and here you can find out some very clear signs that indicate if you present this intolerance in a very obvious way.
Signs of gluten intolerance
More than 55 diseases have been linked to gluten, the protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. It is estimated that 99% of people who have gluten intolerance or any celiac disease are not diagnosed. Likewise, it is estimated that up to 15% of the population in North America is intolerant to gluten.
More than 55 diseases have been linked to gluten, the protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. It is estimated that 99% of people who have gluten intolerance or celiac disease are never diagnosed. In this article we tell you how to know if you are gluten intolerant or celiac.
1. Digestive problems like constipation, gas, bloating, and diarrhea
There may be constipation especially in children after eating gluten. But bloating, gas, and other intestinal ailments are very significant in being gluten intolerant.
2. Keratosis pilaris, (also known as "goose bumps" on the back of the arms)
Goose bumps or keratosis pilaris is the result of a fatty acid deficiency and vitamin A deficiency derived from a malabsorption of fats caused by gluten, and damaging the intestine.
3. Fatigue
Confusion or feeling tired after eating a meal that contains gluten. This is one of the main signs of gluten intolerance that can be noticed, although many times it can be caused by other different factors, such as chronic fatigue, for example.
4. Diagnosis of an autoimmune disease
Such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, lupus, psoriasis, scleroderma, or multiple sclerosis. All these conditions are caused by an autoimmune disease, which can be treated by avoiding the consumption of gluten.
5. Neurological symptoms
Gluten intolerance can cause symptoms such as dizziness or a feeling of being out of balance. This can also be related to headache and migraine problems described later.
6. Hormonal imbalances
Hormonal imbalances such as PMS, PCOS, or unexplained infertility. This condition could be indicating a problem related to gluten, and it is advisable to consult a gynecologist at any slight indication, in order to find a natural solution.
7. Headaches
Gluten intolerance can cause migraine. This condition, together with other neurological symptoms that occur after ingesting gluten, is not necessarily a factor linked only to those who suffer from celiac disease, but can also occur in those who are intolerant to gluten.
8. Diagnosis of chronic fatigue or fibromyalgia
Chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia diagnoses simply indicate that your conventional doctor cannot pinpoint the cause of fatigue or pain.
9. Inflammation, swelling, or pain in the joints
Inflammation, swelling, or pain in joints such as fingers, knees, or hips.
10. Mood problems
Such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, and attention deficit.
How to test for gluten intolerance
One of the easiest ways to determine if you are intolerant to gluten is to go on an elimination diet by cutting it off for at least 2-3 weeks and then reintroducing it . Keep in mind that gluten is a large protein and it can take months or even years to clear from your system so the longer you can eliminate it from your diet before reintroducing it, the better.
If you feel significantly better without gluten or feel worse when you reintroduce it, you are probably gluten intolerant. In order to get accurate results from this test method, you must eliminate 100% of gluten from your diet.
Treatment if you are intolerant to gluten
Eliminating gluten from your diet 100% means 100%. Even small amounts of gluten from cross contamination or from medications or supplements can be enough to trigger an immune reaction in the body.
The 80/20 rule or "we don't eat it at home, only when we eat out" is a total mistake. An article published in 2001 points out that for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, eating just once a month has a relative 600% increased risk of death.
Eating foods rich in vitamin C and amino acids can increase the levels of hyaluronic acid and collagen in the body as both are important for skin. Foods such as oranges, red peppers, kale, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and strawberries are all rich in vitamin C.