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Gluten intolerance - allergens
Hello! If you are here, you probably suspect that gluten is not your best friend. Or maybe you have been diagnosed with gluten intolerance and are looking for answers. Don''t worry, you are in the right place! We are going to break down everything you need to know about gluten intolerance, from what it is to how to live a full and delicious life without it.
Let''s start with the basics. What exactly are we talking about?
Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. It is what gives elasticity to the dough and allows the bread to rise and have that appealing texture. But, beware! For some people, this protein can be a real headache (literally, sometimes).
It is important to differentiate between gluten intolerance, wheat allergy, and celiac disease. A wheat allergy is an immune system reaction to wheat, which can cause symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing, and even anaphylaxis. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease where gluten damages the lining of the small intestine. Gluten intolerance, also known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity, causes symptoms similar to celiac disease but does not damage the small intestine. In intolerance, the body has difficulty digesting gluten, which causes a series of discomforts. It is neither an allergic reaction nor an autoimmune disease, but it can still significantly affect your quality of life.
Your body is wise, listen to it! Gluten intolerance can manifest itself in different ways.
Digestive symptoms are the most common. We are talking about:
But gluten intolerance does not only affect the stomach. It can manifest itself with:
Do any of these symptoms sound familiar? It''s time to investigate further.
Why do some people develop gluten intolerance and others don''t? The truth is that science still does not have all the answers, but some key factors have been identified.
There is a genetic predisposition to gluten intolerance. If you have family members with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it is more likely that you will also develop it.
The environment also plays an important role. Some studies suggest that the increase in the consumption of processed gluten and changes in gut flora could contribute to the development of intolerance. Furthermore, intestinal infections and the use of antibiotics could also influence it.
The diagnosis of gluten intolerance can be a bit complicated, as the symptoms overlap with other conditions.
The first step is to rule out celiac disease and wheat allergy. Your doctor may request blood tests to look for antibodies related to celiac disease and allergy tests to rule out wheat allergy.
If medical tests are negative, the elimination diet is the next step. It consists of completely removing gluten from your diet for a period of time (usually 2 to 6 weeks) and observing whether the symptoms improve. If symptoms disappear when eliminating gluten and reappear when reintroducing it, it is very likely that you are gluten intolerant.
The good news is that gluten intolerance can be managed effectively.
The cornerstone of treatment is following a lifelong gluten-free diet. This involves eliminating all foods containing wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. At first, it may seem overwhelming, but over time you will get used to it and discover a world of delicious gluten-free options. There are many gluten-free products available on the market, from breads and pastas to cookies and cereals.
In some cases, supplements can be helpful in relieving symptoms and improving nutrient absorption.
Probiotics help improve gut health and can relieve symptoms such as bloating and gas.
Digestive enzymes can help break down food and facilitate digestion, especially if you have difficulty digesting other foods besides gluten.
If left untreated, gluten intolerance can lead to long-term complications, such as nutritional deficiencies, anemia, osteoporosis, and neurological problems. That is why it is so important to get a diagnosis and follow an adequate gluten-free diet.
You are not alone in this. There are many resources and support groups available to help you navigate the gluten-free world.
Joining a support group can be very helpful for sharing experiences, getting advice, and feeling understood. You can find support groups online or in your local community.
There are numerous websites, blogs, and forums dedicated to gluten-free living. You can find recipes, tips for shopping and gluten-free restaurants, and information about the latest research on gluten intolerance.
Gluten intolerance can be a challenge, but it does not have to limit your life. With a proper diagnosis, a well-planned gluten-free diet, and the right support, you can live a full, healthy, and delicious life. Remember, listen to your body, educate yourself, and don''t be afraid to ask for help! You can handle this!
Is gluten intolerance the same as celiac disease?
No, they are different conditions. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease in which gluten damages the small intestine. Gluten intolerance does not damage the small intestine, but causes similar symptoms.
Can I develop gluten intolerance at any age?
Yes, gluten intolerance can develop at any age. Some people are born with it, while others develop it later in life.
Is gluten intolerance curable?
No, gluten intolerance is not curable. However, it can be managed effectively by following a lifelong gluten-free diet.
What foods should I avoid if I am gluten intolerant?
You should avoid all foods containing wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives, such as bread, pasta, cookies, cereals, beer, and some types of soy sauce.
How can I know if a product is gluten-free?
Look for the "gluten-free" label on the product packaging. You can also check the list of ingredients to verify if it contains wheat, barley, rye, or their derivatives.
