Gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, has been linked to more than 55 diseases. It is estimated that celiac disease and gluten sensitivity account for 99% of undiagnosed cases.
Additionally, up to 15 percent of Americans are gluten intolerant. Maybe you are one of them.
If you have any of the following symptoms, you may have a gluten allergy.
Digestive problems such as bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and gas. I see constipation after eating gluten, especially in young children.
Chicken skin, or keratosis pilaris, on the back of the hand. This is often due to malabsorption of fat caused by gluten, which damages the gut, resulting in fatty acid and vitamin A deficiency.
Fatigue or mental fog after eating gluten-containing foods.
Learn about autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, lupus, psoriasis, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Neurological symptoms include dizziness and loss of balance.
Hormonal disorders such as PCOS, PMS or idiopathic infertility
Migraine headache
Diagnosis of fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome. These diagnoses only indicate that your regular doctor cannot determine the root of your discomfort and fatigue.
Joint discomfort, swelling, or inflammation in your fingers, knees, or hips.
Depression, such as lack of attention, anxiety, and sadness.
How to test for gluten intolerance?
I have found that the best way to determine if you have a gluten sensitivity is to go on a gluten-free diet, removing gluten from your diet for at least 2-3 weeks and then reintroducing it back into your diet. Keep in mind that gluten is a very large protein and it can take months or years for your body to completely eliminate it. The longer you can go without it before introducing it back into your diet, the better.
