Topics
Understanding Gluten
Wheat gluten has become more popular in the last few decades. Gluten is a mix of certain proteins primarily found in wheat, barley, rye, and oats, including some prepared foods like pasta, cakes, bread, and breakfast cereals.
The gluten protein, particularly from wheat, comprises two key components: glutenin and gliadin. The gliadin component constantly initiates adverse reactions in individuals with gluten intolerance.
Understanding Gluten Intolerance
The phrase “gluten intolerance” refers to three distinct types of health issues in individuals:- An autoimmune condition called celiac disease (CD)
- A wheat allergy
- A sensitivity to gluten in people who do not have celiac disease (NCGS)
Gluten intolerance, also known as 'non-celiac gluten sensitivity,' is an allergic reaction. It describes a condition in which individuals experience intestinal and occasionally other symptoms after consuming grains that contain gluten.
However, these people do not have celiac disease or a wheat allergy. Once they get rid of gluten from their diet, usually their symptoms will improve. Gluten sensitivity, unlike celiac disease, does not result in long-term damage to the small intestine.
Additional research is required to thoroughly understand why some individuals develop gluten intolerance. Factors that have been identified that may lead to this condition include genetic predisposition, gut health, and the presence of certain proteins in gluten.
Gluten Intolerance Symptoms
Gluten intolerance signs include a mix of symptoms, which may include abdominal discomfort. Anaemia, bloating, brain fog, eczema or rash, headaches, irregular bowel patterns (either diarrhoea or constipation), joint and muscle discomfort, tingling in the legs or arms, and weight loss.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing gluten sensitivity mainly involves a process of elimination and attentive monitoring.
Your doctor may perform tests to rule out celiac disease and wheat allergy. These tests involve blood tests for certain antibodies and a biopsy of the small intestine. Blood tests are done to test wheat allergy for certain IgE antibodies.
Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome or lactose intolerance may show similar symptoms, should be regarded and ruled out as well.
A test known as elimination diet is done by removing foods that contain gluten from your diet for a while, usually a few weeks to see if your symptoms improve. Gluten is slowly reintroduced under medical observation to see if your symptoms come back, which confirms gluten sensitivity. This is done after the elimination phase.
Treatment Options
The main treatment for gluten intolerance is the same as for celiac disease. It is important to take on a gluten-free diet and steer clear of gluten-containing foods when managing gluten intolerance.
Common food types to avoid include bread and baked goods made from wheat, barley, or rye flours; pasta and noodles (unless particularly labelled gluten-free); cereals containing wheat, barley, or malt; processed foods like soups, sauces, or dressings that may contain hidden gluten; and beer or other malt-based drinks.
Always keep an eye on food labels and choose naturally gluten-free grains and starches as part of your diet, such as rice, quinoa, corn, potatoes, and gluten-free oats.
Make sure your diet is abundant in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and gluten-free whole grains to maintain nutritional balance and avoid deficiencies. If nutrient deficiencies, such as iron or B vitamins, are suspected, consider taking supplements under a doctor’s guidance.
It is essential to understand how the body reacts to gluten changes significantly among every person, therefore the outcomes are not always the same. Frequent check-ups with a doctor can aid in monitoring your general health and make sure the diet is effective in managing symptoms.
Schedule an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
If you are experiencing gluten intolerance symptoms, consider seeking advice from one of our expert team of Gastroenterologists. The team at Gleneagles Hospitals is equipped to provide expert care and tailor treatment plans to your specific needs.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment. Whether you are dealing with gluten intolerance or other digestive concerns, we are here to support your health and well-being.
