Signs of gluten intolerance that should NOT be ignored!

Is gluten good for you? You might have heard celebrities talking about avoiding gluten, as if it’s the secret to better skin, more energy, or effortless weight loss. But is ditching gluten really necessary for everyone? Or is it just a passing trend? More importantly, how can you find out if you have gluten intolerance?

What is gluten intolerance?

Gluten intolerance is characterized by adverse reactions to gluten, a group of proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. You might feel bloated, gassy, or tired after eating gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and other grains. You can find it in most foods, including pasta, cereal, and beer. It may also be found in vitamins, cosmetics, and even certain medications.

Gluten-related disorders (GRDs) include celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), and wheat allergy.

Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disease occuring due to an abnormal gene and as a result where ingestion of gluten could leads to damage in the small intestine. This runs in the family.

Do I have gluten intolerance?

Though gluten is harmless for most people, some individuals may experience discomfort or adverse reactions after consuming it.

Here are some common signs:

Bloating: Feeling gassy, swollen, or tight in the stomach area after eating gluten-rich foods is one of the most common symptoms.

Stomach pain: Cramps, discomfort, or sharp pains may occur, especially after meals that include bread, pasta, or baked goods.
Video
Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired, even after a full night's sleep, can be linked to gluten intolerance, especially if it follows meals.

Brain fog: Difficulty concentrating, poor memory, and mental fatigue (often called “brain fog”) may be triggered by gluten in some individuals.

Headaches: Recurring headaches or even migraines without a clear cause might be a sign.

Joint or muscle pain: Some people report aches and stiffness that ease up after cutting out gluten.

Skin issues: Rashes may be linked to gluten sensitivity in certain individuals.

Gluten intolerance may be controversial, but the symptoms are real for those who experience it. If you experience any of these symptoms, the immediate action shouldn’t be going gluten-free on a whim. It is important to consult a doctor to see whether it's gluten intolerance, allergy, or celiac disease. Keeping track of symptoms with a food diary could be useful. Even if you are gluten intolerant, it does not mean giving up on the little joys in life. Your dietitian can help you curate a balanced diet, without lacking nutrients or compromising on the taste. Importantly, not everyone needs to ditch gluten; for those without sensitivity, whole grains remain a healthy staple.