Gluten Intolerance: Symptoms and Worsening Health Conditions
Understanding Gluten Intolerance:
An immune reaction to consuming gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye—distinct from a gluten allergy or Celiac disease.
A Slice of Truth about Gluten Sensitivity
It’s a common misconception that if you don’t have Celiac disease, you can safely consume gluten without any adverse effects. But here’s the reality: gluten sensitivity is becoming increasingly prevalent, not just in humans but also in pets!
The culprit? The Standard American Diet (SAD), which is packed with gluten-rich foods that we consume from morning to night.
A Day in the Life of SAD:
Breakfast: Toast, bagels, cereals, pancakes, waffles, pastries.
Lunch: Sandwiches, crackers, anything served on buns and breads.
Dinner: Pizza, pasta, beer, processed meals in a box.
Gluten has become a staple in our daily diet.
The problem? Our bodies are not equipped to fully digest gluten. As a result, when eaten in excessive amounts, it passes through our digestive system, damaging the lining of the small intestines and creating inflammation.
This inflammation can lead to leaky gut syndrome, where partially digested food particles enter the bloodstream, triggering an immune response that spreads inflammation throughout the body.
How Gluten Intolerance Can Worsen Health Conditions
We’re familiar with symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, fatigue, brain fog, and headaches that often accompany gluten intolerance.
However, these symptoms can also exacerbate other underlying health conditions, leading to a vicious cycle of worsening health.
Health Conditions Worsened by Gluten Intolerance:
Mood Disorders & Depression: Inflammation caused by gluten can affect the blood brain barrier, potentially worsening mood disorders.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) & Digestive Issues: Chronic gut inflammation can aggravate IBS and other digestive conditions.
Chronic Inflammation: Persistent inflammation from gluten intolerance can increase the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions.
Neurological Conditions like Autism and Alzheimer’s Disease: Emerging research suggests that gluten-related inflammation may play a role in exacerbating neurological conditions.
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD): Some studies indicate that gluten may worsen symptoms of ADD in sensitive individuals.
Autoimmune Disorders such as Rheumatoid Arthritis: The immune response triggered by gluten can worsen autoimmune conditions.
Osteoporosis: Inflammation and nutrient malabsorption related to gluten intolerance can contribute to bone density loss.
Taking Control of Your Health: The Next Steps
If you suspect that gluten may be affecting your health, consider eliminating it from your diet for 30 days and then reintroducing it in larger amounts to see how your body reacts. This simple test can reveal whether gluten is worsening symptoms of other conditions you might have. Remember, symptoms can take up to seven days to appear, so listen closely to your body.
Empowering Change:
Consider Gluten as a Treat: To minimize inflammation, think of gluten-containing foods as occasional treats rather than daily staples. Rotation of any food is the key to good health.
Work with a Health Coach: Navigating a gluten-free lifestyle can be challenging, but working with a health coach can provide personalized support and practical tips to make the transition smoother.
Your Health, Your Choice
Gluten intolerance is a complex issue that can worsen existing health conditions, but awareness and proactive steps can make a significant difference. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to seek out answers and advocate for your health.
Ready to Transform Your Health? Join our wellness journey and discover how personalized coaching can help you manage gluten intolerance and lead a balanced, healthier life. Your path to well-being starts here.
