Do You Know the Signs of Gluten Intolerance?
Non-coeliac gluten sensitivity (gluten intolerance) is defined as an inability to tolerate gluten that produces symptoms similar to coeliac disease. Early research described it as a kind of allergic reaction — an innate immune response.
So how can we recognise gluten intolerance? Here are 12 signs that may point to it.
1. Migraine
Headache is a symptom of many health problems. A migraine, however, is a distinct condition that can come alongside diarrhoea, low iron count and skin rash. If a migraine begins within 1 or 2 hours of eating a food containing gluten, this may be an important sign of non-coeliac gluten sensitivity.
2. Depression and Anxiety
Depression is a serious health concern for many people, with symptoms that can include hopelessness, loss of interest, low energy, disrupted appetite, changes in sleep patterns and irritability. Some people need medication to correct the lasting imbalances that depression brings.
New research confirms a link between coeliac disease and gluten intolerance and depression, anxiety and mood changes. In gluten sensitivity, removing gluten from the diet can make depression and anxiety more manageable.
3. Gastrointestinal Symptoms
The signs of gluten intolerance can appear in different parts of the body, but gastrointestinal issues are among the most common, especially in babies and children. These can include abdominal pain, gas, bloating, diarrhoea, reduced appetite, constipation, nausea and vomiting. Many of these symptoms also appear in Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance, diverticulitis and inflammatory bowel disease.
Symptoms vary from person to person and can be very hard to diagnose. One person may have only diarrhoea, another may have constipation and bloating, and someone else may have none of these gastrointestinal symptoms at all.
4. Brain Fog
Not being able to think clearly can feel like hearing the same sounds muffled. If you feel disconnected from the outside world, something may be off.
Gluten can create the effect known as "brain fog" in sensitive people. Exactly how much gluten causes this isn't fully established yet. In recent studies, researchers found there may be significant cross-reactivity between the IgG antibody and gluten and other antibodies, which can lead to brain fog. These antibodies can also cause inflammation, making things worse.
5. Keratosis Pilaris
Usually seen on the backs of the arms and also known as "chicken skin," this can result from a deficiency of fatty acids and vitamin A — which in turn can be secondary to gluten intolerance damaging the gut.
6. Fibromyalgia
Some experts believe fibromyalgia is not a disease but a symptom. Connective-tissue inflammation is one of the strongest signs of gluten intolerance. The body treats gluten as an enemy and sends antibodies to destroy it, and these antibodies damage the lining of the stomach and intestines. The inflammation may show up as joint pain, or anywhere else in the body. If a doctor tells you that you have fibromyalgia, try removing gluten from your diet and see how you feel.
7. Extreme Fatigue
Do you constantly feel like you haven't slept enough? If you wake up exhausted even after a full night's sleep, something may be off. Gluten can make you feel sluggish and tired in various ways. When your body is in a state of inflammation and using gluten proteins as its source, your available energy stores and normal bodily processes can be affected.
8. Neurological Symptoms
In some people with this intolerance, different neurological symptoms can appear that seriously interfere with vital functions. These can include problems with balance, reduced coordination and episodes of dizziness. They typically occur about 1 hour after eating a meal containing gluten.
9. Autoimmune Conditions
Inflammation and long-term exposure to gluten can put your body on alert. Autoimmune conditions often develop in people with gluten intolerance. These include lupus, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, scleroderma, Hashimoto's thyroiditis and multiple sclerosis.
10. Hormonal Problems
Different hormonal problems can arise as a result of gluten intolerance. Recent research points to a possible link between this intolerance and polycystic ovary syndrome, premenstrual syndrome and unexplained infertility. If you have issues in these areas and they worsen particularly when you eat gluten, gluten intolerance should certainly be considered.
11. Skin Rash
If you have gluten intolerance, dermatitis herpetiformis can develop. As gluten is used up from stores beneath the skin's first layer, antibodies are released and cause watery, itchy blisters. For some people this may be the only sign of gluten intolerance. Skin problems usually develop on the elbows, knees, buttocks, face, scalp and shoulders. If you experience symptoms of dermatitis herpetiformis, you'll need to follow a gluten-free diet to prevent the intestinal damage that occurs.
12. Unexplained Weight Loss or Weight Gain
Certain forms of malabsorption and changes in intestinal permeability that come with developing gluten intolerance or sensitivity can cause unwanted weight loss despite regular calorie intake. On the other hand, gluten can trigger systemic inflammation that mimics stubborn weight gain. With the support of a dietitian, you can remove gluten from your life alongside a healthy diet, help your gut heal, and return to a healthy weight.