What is Gluten Intolerance?
Gluten sensitivity or intolerance is a condition that causes a person to react after ingesting gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. Gluten causes an autoimmune response in the body which damages the small intestine. It’s estimated that 99% of the people who have either gluten intolerance or celiac disease are never diagnosed. It is also estimated that 15% of the US population is gluten intolerant.
11 Signs of Gluten Intolerance That Most People Ignore
Hormone Imbalances
Different hormonal issues may occur as a result of a gluten intolerance. Infertility and irregular menstrual cycles are sign of gluten intolerance. The inflammation from gluten consumption puts a significant amount of stress on the adrenal glands, which can begin to malfunction and upset the balance of the entire endocrine system.
Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases frequently develop in people who are intolerant to gluten. These diseases include lupus, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis and multiple sclerosis.
Low Immunity
Low immune function can be dangerous and lead to a higher risk for diseases like colds and flus. Research has shown that celiac disease can cause malnourishment, which can result in low immune function.
Digestive Issue
Symptoms of gluten intolerance may occur in the digestive tract. You may experience gastrointestinal symptoms. Symptoms include abdominal cramping, bloating, intestinal gas and changes in bowel patterns. Diarrhoea or constipation may occur with pale, foul-smelling and fatty stools.
Mouth Ulcers
You know those tiny, round sores that sometimes develop in your mouth? Well, those are called mouth ulcers, and can be caused by many different things, ranging from emotional stress, to fungal infections, and in some cases celiac disease.
Skin Rash
This rash may mimic eczema, and is dry and itchy. This can happen within hours or days after eating gluten. In most people, skin rush may last for a long time but is rarely associated with having a gluten intolerance.
Weight Loss
Weight loss may occur in both adults and children with celiac disease, despite having a normal appetite. This is because even small amounts of gluten cause damage to the lining of the intestines, resulting in malabsorption.
Inflammation
Inflammation, swelling or pain in your joints such as fingers, knees or hips. Swollen and painful joints, especially including the fingers and knees, might be indicative of a sensitivity to gluten.
Fatigue
Fatigue, brain fog or feeling tired after eating a meal that contains gluten. This is because their intestines can’t absorb valuable nutrients and vitamins needed to provide energy. Tiredness can also be a symptom of other conditions such as anemia, chronic fatigue syndrome, sleep disorders, thyroid problems and diabetes.
Mood disorder
Mood swings, anxiety, and depression are common among adults with undiagnosed gluten sensitivity. Gluten can have profound psychological effects in people with celiac disease.
Reference and sources:
http://www.nutritionsecrets.com/symptoms-gluten-intolerance/
http://www.livestrong.com/article/361976-signs-symptoms-of-gluten-intolerance/
http://dailyhealthpost.com/10-signs-youre-gluten-intolerant/
http://www.naturalnews.com/038170_gluten_sensitivity_symptoms_intolerance.html
