Gluten Intolerance - (non-coeliac gluten sensitivity)

What is gluten intolerance? 

Non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, or what is commonly referred to as ‘gluten intolerance’ triggers a stress response that usually results in digestive discomfort. 

This differs from the immune response that occurs in those who have a wheat allergy (usually occurring in children and outgrown by age 12) or the more serious coeliac disease - which usually results in intestinal tissue damage, hampering the absorption of nutrients, and can cause anaemia, weight loss, fatigue, bloating and pain

Is gluten intolerance a real condition?

Many health issues have been linked to gluten, however it is believed that a large proportion of those who have either gluten intolerance or even coeliac disease are never diagnosed. 

This is because conventional medicine often downplays the significance of non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, even going as far as suggesting that it doesn’t exist. 

But a growing body of evidence indicates that gluten intolerance is not only real, but that its negative effects may be just as damaging to those of coeliac disease. 

Unfortunately, many people remain undiagnosed to these conditions and so continue to eat gluten regularly, putting themselves at potential risk for autoimmune and other diseases.

How do I find out if I am gluten intolerant?

The best way to determine if you have an issue with gluten intolerance is to do an elimination diet.

This means taking it out of your diet for at least 2 weeks and then reintroducing it. 

If you feel significantly better without gluten or feel worse when you reintroduce it, then gluten is likely a problem for you. In order to get accurate results from this testing method you must eliminate 100% of the gluten from you diet.

How does healthy nutrition help treat gluten intolerance naturally? 

If you suspect you have a sensitivity to gluten, it is a good idea to avoid wheat products for a few weeks to see how you feel without them in your diet. It may be difficult at first, but is well worth it if your abdominal discomfort and mood swings subside and you regain your energy.

Although it may be in your best interests to give up gluten regardless of whether you are intolerant to it or because it’s one of the most highly pesticide-contaminated crops you could ever consume, you don’t have to give up all the foods you enjoy that typically contain wheat. 

There are many gluten-free and wheat-free alternatives to common foods like bread, pasta, cereals, and baked goods. Be aware that wheat and gluten can also be found in some surprising places. You might even spot them in ice cream, syrup and vitamins & food supplements.

Be sure to read the ingredients labels of the foods and beverages you consume to make sure they don’t contain wheat or gluten.

Find out more about the Allergies and Intolerances Program