16 Common Signs of Gluten Intolerance

Is your tummy giving you trouble? Do you find yourself feeling bloated, gassy, and just plain uncomfortable after meals? Gluten intolerance might be the culprit! Today, I will discuss a topic that has gained quite some attention in recent years – gluten intolerance. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. And for some people, it can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms.

Let’s dive into the 16 most common signs of gluten intolerance. Remember, if you suspect you might have an issue with gluten, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and guidance.

Signs of Gluten Intolerance

1. Bloating

Let’s start with bloating. You know the feeling – that uncomfortable tightness in your abdomen after a meal. Bloating is a common complaint among those with gluten intolerance. Gluten can irritate the gut lining and cause inflammation, leading to an unpleasant, swollen sensation.

Further Reading: 10 Foods That Reduce Bloating

2. Diarrhea and Constipation

A delicate balance of good bacteria keeps your digestive system running smoothly. However, when gluten causes inflammation, this balance can be disrupted. The result? Diarrhea or constipation. If you’re noticing these issues more frequently after consuming gluten, it might be time to reconsider your diet.

3. Abdominal Pain

Pain in the abdomen is a major telltale sign of gluten intolerance. Because when your gut is inflamed, it can cause discomfort throughout your entire midsection. Pay attention to when this pain occurs – if it’s often after meals containing gluten, you might have found the culprit.

4. Headaches and Migraines

Headaches are a common complaint among those with gluten intolerance. Sufferers may experience frequent headaches or migraines, particularly after consuming gluten-rich foods. This connection is believed to be due to inflammation caused by gluten in some individuals.

5. Fatigue

Next, let’s talk about fatigue. It’s no secret that we all experience tiredness from time to time, but if you’re feeling unusually fatigued after eating gluten, it could be a clue. Gluten intolerance can cause your body to struggle with digesting and processing the protein, leading to a lack of energy and a constant feeling of exhaustion.

6. Brain Fog

Another common symptom of gluten intolerance is brain fog, which can manifest as difficulty concentrating, memory issues, or a general sense of mental cloudiness. This is thought to be related to the inflammation in the gut gluten can cause in some individuals, which may affect brain function.

7. Skin Issues

Got a case of the itches? Skin issues like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis herpetiformis can be triggered by gluten intolerance. If your skin flares up after gluten consumption, consider the possibility of an intolerance.

8. Joint Pain

Feeling achy? Joint pain can be another indicator of gluten intolerance. Inflammation caused by gluten can spread throughout the body, causing pain and discomfort in your joints.

9. Mood Swings and Anxiety

Are you feeling moody or anxious after eating gluten? These emotional symptoms might not be all in your head. Interestingly, gluten intolerance has been linked to mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. While the connection isn’t entirely understood, scientists believe that inflammation caused by gluten may affect brain chemistry and contribute to these mood changes.

10. Unexplained Weight Loss

Losing weight without trying might sound like a dream come true, but it can be a warning sign of gluten intolerance. If your body isn’t absorbing nutrients properly because of inflammation, you might start shedding pounds without changing your eating or exercise habits.

11. Anemia

Iron-deficiency anemia is another potential sign of gluten intolerance. When your gut is inflamed, it can have difficulty absorbing the necessary nutrients, like iron, leading to anemia and its accompanying symptoms, such as fatigue and pale skin.

12. Numbness or Tingling

If you’re experiencing numbness or tingling in your hands or feet, gluten intolerance might be to blame. In some cases, gluten can cause nerve damage, leading to these uncomfortable sensations. This is medically referred to as gluten neuropathy, and it’s a fairly common issue among those with gluten sensitivity or intolerance.

13. Dental Issues

Gluten intolerance may contribute to dental issues such as tooth decay, enamel defects, and canker sores. This is due to the malabsorption of nutrients that can result from gluten intolerance.

14. Hormonal Imbalances

Did you know that gluten intolerance can impact your hormones? Inflammation caused by gluten can lead to hormonal imbalances, such as irregular periods, PMS, or even fertility issues. If you’re experiencing these problems and suspect gluten might be the cause, consult with a healthcare professional.

15. Autoimmune Disorders

Individuals with gluten intolerance may be at an increased risk of developing autoimmune disorders, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, type 1 diabetes, or rheumatoid arthritis. This is because gluten can trigger an immune response in some people, which may lead to the development of autoimmune conditions.

16. Nutrient Deficiencies

If you’re experiencing nutrient deficiencies like low levels of iron, vitamin D, or calcium, gluten intolerance could be the culprit. Gluten can interfere with your body’s ability to absorb these essential nutrients.

If you’ve been experiencing any of these common signs of gluten intolerance, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, like a doctor or registered dietitian, for guidance. Together, you can determine if gluten is the source of your discomfort and create a personalized plan to help you feel better. With the right support, you can manage your symptoms and enjoy a healthier, happier life.

Future Reading: 7 Symptoms of Celiac Disease