Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Celiac disease affects about one in 100 people. People with this autoimmune condition cannot digest gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Other people may have gluten intolerance, a milder form of the disease.

Although the small intestine of these people does not deteriorate in the same way as for those with celiac disease, people with gluten intolerance may have similar symptoms.

We know that gluten has an inflammatory effect and that it causes many different symptoms, such as the following:

1. Bloating

In general, bloating refers to the feeling of having a bloated or full stomach after eating food. If your abdomen is swollen and painful on a regular basis, especially after eating gluten-containing foods, see a doctor. This is the most common symptom among people with gluten intolerance.

2. Abdominal pain

Although there are many reasons for abdominal discomfort, if you often have this symptom after eating gluten-free foods, you may have an adverse reaction to gluten. It is recommended to keep a diary of the food you eat.

3. Constipation and diarrhea

Problems such as gas, diarrhea and constipation can also indicate gluten intolerance. Many people with gluten intolerance regularly experience diarrhea, which can lead to bigger problems such as dehydration and fatigue.

4. Brain fog

Many people with gluten intolerance have difficulty concentrating. There may be memory loss or not finding the right words when speaking. This reaction can be improved in the first year of a gluten-free diet.

5. Headaches

People with gluten intolerance may be more prone to migraines than people who do not have this condition. People often report nausea, sensitivity to light and sound.

6. Anxiety and/or depression

These problems are related to severe inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, and imbalances in the intestinal flora, all due to gluten exposure. If you are anxious all the time, be very careful with your diet.

7. Fatigue

Research indicates that people with gluten intolerance often lack energy and have difficulty going through the day.

8. Weight loss

People with gluten intolerance may notice some weight loss. Often, people can limit their diet because they are afraid of the discomfort that comes after eating certain foods, and this leads to weight loss.

9. Skin problems

Many people with gluten intolerance say they have dry skin, itchy rashes, acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It is important to note that these skin problems are different from dermatitis herpetiformis, a condition commonly encountered in celiac disease.

10. Inflammation and joint pain

Gluten has been shown to be a contributing factor to joint and muscle pain, and fibromyalgia has been strongly linked to gluten intolerance. Many patients with rheumatoid arthritis notice a decrease in joint pain after following a gluten-free diet.

If you want to find out about gluten, check out our article on this topic: What is gluten?

[Photo from Pixabay]