Gluten intolerance is a condition that makes a person react to gluten, which is a protein found in barley, wheat and rye. Some of the main symptoms include joint pain, gastrointestinal problems, depression and fatigue.
Many people experience health or digestive problems after eating gluten or wheat and that might be an indicator that you’re gluten intolerant. Some people even suffer from celiac disease which is a really serious type of gluten intolerance. It’s an autoimmune disorder that causes damage to the small intestine. 1 in 100 people suffer from celiac disease and if it is not treated properly, it can cause serious health complications.
If you’re not sure whether you’re gluten intolerant, here are the 5 signs:
1. Unexpected Weight Gain
All too many pounds all of a sudden can be an indication that you have gluten intolerance. Weight gain is caused by malabsorption and systemic inflammation, both caused by gluten intolerance.
2. Dental Problems
One study shows that gluten sensitivity can cause aphthous stomatitis- a condition that causes mouth ulcers and canker sores. People who are sensitive to gluten have extremely low levels of calcium, which is a key substance for having healthy teeth.
3. Skin Problems
Gluten intolerance influences different areas of the body, including the skin. Gluten has been linked to eczema, acne, psoriasis and DH- dermatitis herpetiformis. People who have gluten intolerance might experience redness, rashes, burning, blistering and itching.
4. Headaches and Migraines
Migraines are excruciating painful headaches that are difficult to treat. People with gluten intolerance experience more migraines that ordinary people. If you notice those headaches and migraines happening too often or becoming more and more painful, that might be an indication that you have gluten intolerance.
5. Joint and Muscle Pain
People who have gluten intolerance often experience muscle and joint pain.
According to WebMD: “Joint pain and inflammation are common symptoms of gluten sensitivity. And research does show links between the two diseases. The Arthritis Foundation has also published findings that link arthritis and joint pain with gluten sensitivity”.