Do you have symptoms like bloating, gas, fatigue, and abdominal pain after consuming bread, pasta, and barley? If yes, you may be dealing with gluten intolerance, also known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity. It is a condition where individuals experience negative reactions after consuming gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. But is it possible to become gluten intolerant later in life? We spoke to our expert Dr Rohini Patil, MBBS and Nutritionist, Founder, Nutracy Lifestyle, who shared insights on the same.
While gluten intolerance is noted in many illnesses and has been common since childhood, it is also possible that you can become gluten intolerant later in life. Complete elimination of gluten from your diet is recommended for managing this condition.
What Is Gluten Intolerance?
Gluten is found in many of the daily food items consumed, such as bread, pasta cereals, mayonnaise, ketchup, salad dressings and sauces and other items made of wheat, barley, rye, and gram flour. It is a protein present in many foods that we consume daily.
“When the body begins to reject gluten absorption, it results in a condition called gluten intolerance. This condition is characterised by an abnormal immune response to gluten and can be triggered by factors, such as poor eating habits, illness, stress, and tension,” said Dr Patil.
Also Read: What Is Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity? Know Its Causes
Causes of Gluten Intolerance
In cases of gluten intolerance, a person may experience one or more of the following three conditions:
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that compromises the immune system’s ability to process gluten. As the most severe type of gluten intolerance, it affects only 0.7–1% of people, according to a 2012 study.
Dr Patil added, “When suffering from celiac disease, the parts present in the small intestine which are responsible for absorbing nutrients are destroyed when gluten-rich food is consumed. Bloating, gas, diarrhoea, constipation, stomach ache, fatigue, anaemia, nausea and vomiting are some of the symptoms of celiac disease.”
Non-celiac Allergy
People with non-celiac gluten sensitivity are sensitive to gluten but do not have celiac disease or a wheat allergy. Symptoms of this condition commonly include fatigue, bloating, gas, and headaches.
Wheat Allergy
“Wheat allergy is the result of an immune reaction to proteins in wheat-based foods, such as bread and pasta. The symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, rashes, irritation in the eyes, throat and mouth, diarrhoea and difficulty in breathing,” said Dr Patil.
Also Read: Should You Go Gluten-Free Just Because Everyone Else Is? Here's What An Expert Has To Say
Symptoms of Gluten Intolerance
Some of the most common symptoms of gluten intolerance as listed by the expert include:
- Issues with digestion, such as bloating, diarrhoea, and constipation lead to nausea and vomiting.
- A condition called keratosis pilaris develops due to a deficiency of fatty acids and vitamin A in the body triggered due to improper absorption of gluten.
- Chronic fatigue and brain fog may indicate gluten intolerance may also mean the person has developed intolerance to gluten.
- Headache, dizziness or migraine
- Hormonal imbalances causing infertility, miscarriages and PCOS may also be symptoms of gluten intolerance.
- Rashes, inflammation, swelling joint pains or issues like depression, anxiety and mood swings are also the symptoms of gluten intolerance.
Diagnosis of Gluten Intolerance
“You may try to stop the intake of gluten-rich food to check if you feel better, but if you feel you may have developed an intolerance to gluten, the intervention of a doctor is a must,” said Dr Patil. Depending on your symptoms, doctors will recommend a set of blood and skin tests to determine if you have celiac disease, a wheat allergy, or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
Management of Gluten Intolerance
“Managing gluten intolerance involves completely removing gluten-containing foods from your diet. Many brands offer gluten-free alternatives like bread, pasta, cereals, and cake mixes, which can be very helpful. Emphasise freshly prepared meals and ask for gluten-free options at restaurants to avoid any adverse symptoms,” concluded Dr Patil.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]