Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. For some, consuming gluten can cause an autoimmune response leading to gluten intolerance. This condition can cause a range of symptoms, from digestive issues to skin rashes.
Here are the signs of gluten intolerance:.
1. Bloating, Gas, and Abdominal Pain
Bloating, gas, and abdominal pain are common symptoms of gluten intolerance. These symptoms occur because gluten irritates the gut and causes inflammation. The inflammation damages the lining of the gut, leading to digestive issues.
2. Diarrhea, Constipation, or Both
Gluten intolerance can cause diarrhea, constipation, or both. These digestive problems occur because gluten damages the lining of the gut, leading to poor absorption of nutrients.
Poor nutrient absorption can cause diarrhea, while slower bowel movements can cause constipation. Some people may experience both.
3. Skin Rash
Dermatitis herpetiformis is a skin rash that occurs in people with gluten intolerance. The rash is itchy and can be painful. It occurs when gluten causes the immune system to attack the skin.
Dermatitis herpetiformis commonly occurs on the elbows, knees, and buttocks.
4. Fatigue
Gluten intolerance can cause fatigue. The inflammation caused by gluten can lead to low energy and exhaustion. People with gluten intolerance may also have trouble sleeping, leading to even more fatigue.
5. Headaches or Migraines
Headaches and migraines are common symptoms of gluten intolerance. Gluten triggers an inflammatory response in the body, which can cause headaches or migraines. Some people with gluten intolerance may experience severe migraines.
6. Joint Pain
People with gluten intolerance may experience joint pain. Gluten triggers an inflammatory response in the body, leading to joint pain and stiffness. This can be especially problematic for people with rheumatoid arthritis.
7. Anxiety and Depression
Gluten intolerance can cause anxiety and depression. The inflammation caused by gluten can affect the brain, leading to mood disorders. Some people with gluten intolerance may experience panic attacks.
8. Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of gluten intolerance. Gluten irritates the gut, leading to inflammation and digestive issues. This can cause nausea and vomiting in some people.
9. Iron-Deficiency Anemia
Iron-deficiency anemia occurs when the body does not have enough iron. Gluten intolerance can lead to poor absorption of nutrients, including iron. This can cause anemia, leading to fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
10. Autoimmune Disease
Gluten intolerance can cause autoimmune disease. In people with gluten intolerance, the immune system attacks gluten as if it were a foreign invader. This can lead to the immune system attacking the body’s own tissues, causing autoimmune disease.