Gluten intolerance is a common problem caused due to unfavourable reactions to gluten - a protein found in wheat, barley and ray. These protein binds the food together and holds shape.
Wheat products such as bread, baked produce, cereals and barley-based foods like malted beverages are few foods that contain gluten.
Individuals with a gluten allergy may experience abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, headache and fatigue soon after consuming gluten-based foods. Avoiding gluten from the diet regimen may help in easing these symptoms.
Celiac disease is a severe form of gluten intolerance which is an autoimmune disease that damages the digestive system.
Learn more about the main signs and symptoms of gluten intolerance.
Bloating
Bloating is a common symptom experienced by people with gluten intolerance. It may stimulate the production of gases, cause swollen tummy soon after eating, causing severe discomfort.
Diarrhoea And Constipation
Frequent diarrhoea and constipation are common symptoms, where more than 50% of the gluten sensitive individuals may have regular bouts of diarrhoea while 25% may have irregular bowel movements. Frequent diarrhoea may pose the risk of electrolyte imbalance, dehydration and fatigue.
Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain is the most obvious symptom of gluten intolerance. A majority of those intolerant to gluten experience severe cramping and pain almost instantly after eating gluten-based food.
Headache
Several studies have shown that people with gluten intolerance are more prone to migraine than healthy individuals.
Skin Allergy
Gluten intolerance may also affect skin health and individuals may experience skin problems like psoriasis, alopecia areata and chronic urticaria. These skin diseases remarkably improve with a gluten-free diet.
Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss is often a concern for those intolerant to gluten. Poor absorption of nutrients leads to weight loss in those unable to digest gluten.
Anxiety
Nervousness, restlessness, tension and panic episodes are some of the worrying symptoms in people with gluten disorder. Anxiety and depression are a very common issue faced by people with gluten sensitivity.
Joint And Muscle Pain
Individuals with gluten intolerance have a lower threshold to trigger sensory neurons which result in severe muscle and joint pains. Furthermore, gluten-based diet results in inflammation which aggravates pain in joints and muscles.