Could a Gluten Intolerance Be Making You Sick?

It’s a bit of a challenge to avoid gluten in your diet, and it can be a little heartbreaking to have to try. After all, most of our favorite carbohydrates contain it! This special type of protein is found in abundance in wheat, rye, barley, and more… then baked into breads, crackers, and pastas. Gluten can also be hidden in foods you don’t expect, like vanilla extract, candy, broth, or yogurt.

For people who suffer from Araceli disease or even milder versions of gluten intolerance, eating just a few bites of gluten can disrupt their digestive systems or cause damage to their intestinal linings. Experts currently estimate that 43 percent of the population has some level of gluten intolerance; this means that it’s a very real possibility you could be upsetting your gastrointestinal tract with just a slice of bread or your next bowl of pasta. Here’s what you should consider:

• Watch for symptoms. While food allergies may cause distinct, immediate reactions, the effects of a food intolerance may be more subtle. You may develop fatigue, weight gain, bloating (especially in the face), and digestive issues like gas, heartburn, diarrhea, or constipation.
• Consider testing. Celiac disease is often diagnosed using either a blood test, stool test, or an intestinal biopsy — though it isn’t always caught right away. If you suspect that a gluten intolerance is causing your health issues, consult your doctor or, if you'd like to look into it yourself, order a food-allergy panel or a celiac antibody screen.
• Try out the gluten-free diet. These days, gluten-free versions of your favorite foods are more available than ever, including pastas and breads. Consider taking a break from gluten for a month to see if your weight loss and your overall health improve. (Be aware that you’ll need to watch out for “hidden” gluten, in things like modified food starch, thickening agents, caramel coloring, MSG, flavored coffee, and soy sauce.) You may discover that avoiding gluten is your ticket to feeling great.

There’s nothing fun about making sacrifices, but some of them are totally worth it. How important to you is good health

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