You’ve probably heard quite a bit about gluten intolerance in the media and online, as well as seen all of the gluten free foods that have become popular in grocery stores, but should you be following a gluten free diet too? Do you have a gluten allergy? Below are a few signs that you may, in fact, be suffering with a gluten allergy or intolerance.
1. Regular Digestive Problems
If you suffer from digestive issues, such as constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, gas, and reflux, on a regular basis, you may have irritable bowel syndrome or another disease that affects the GI tract. Or you may be suffering from celiac disease or gluten intolerance, especially if you get these symptoms after eating gluten-containing foods.
The only way to really know the cause of your discomfort and irregularity is by talking to your doctor and getting the appropriate tests and an accurate diagnosis so you can then approach your ailment with the right medications, if any, and diet.
2. You Have Nutrient Deficiencies
If you have had a blood test done and your doctor noted that you are deficient in vitamin B12, folate, or iron, you may be dealing with untreated celiac disease, which ends up damaging certain areas of the intestines where these nutrients are normally absorbed.
Talk to your doctor about the possibility that celiac disease could be the cause of these deficiencies, especially if you suffer from other gluten intolerance symptoms.
3. Chronic Fatigue
Have you been tired more than usual lately, despite getting enough sleep? Your fatigue may be caused by the foods that you are eating because those who suffer with a gluten allergy may also suffer with chronic fatigue that does not seem to have a specific cause.
You may also suffer from unexplainable brain fog, and you may even notice that you feel particularly tired after you have consumed foods that contain gluten.
4. Inflammation
One of the more serious signs of gluten intolerance is inflammation, which can lead to a host of other problems throughout your body.
Inflammation can cause a variety of symptoms, but if you notice any pain or swelling particularly in your joints, such as your hips, knees, and fingers, be sure to talk to your doctor to pinpoint the cause. Going gluten free may help.
5. Neurological Symptoms and Headaches
Finally, if you suffer from migraine headaches often, and if you have other neurological symptoms, such as difficulty balancing or dizziness, it is time to talk to your doctor, especially if you also have symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, which includes weakness, pain, numbness, and tingling in your extremities.
Even though these are just some of the signs that you can look for that may alert you to a potential gluten allergy, it can’t be stated enough that, to know for certain, a doctor needs to diagnose you. So if you’re suffering with these symptoms, don’t try to self-diagnose. See your doctor and get the appropriate tests so you can take the right steps for your long-term health.