6 Signs You’re Gluten Sensitive

Gluten sensitivity can cause various symptoms that range from digestive discomfort to brain fog. But how do you know if you’re gluten-sensitive, and what does it really mean? In this article, we’ll break down the signs that could indicate your body isn’t happy with gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

Gluten sensitivity, also known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), is not the same as celiac disease or a wheat allergy. In celiac disease, the immune system attacks the intestines when gluten is consumed. A wheat allergy, on the other hand, involves an allergic response to proteins in wheat. Gluten sensitivity falls somewhere in between. People with this condition experience discomfort after eating gluten, but they don’t have the same immune response or damage to their intestines as those with celiac disease.

If you’ve noticed feeling off after eating gluten-containing foods, here are six common signs that might suggest you’re gluten-sensitive.

1. Digestive issues like bloating, gas, or diarrhea could be early signs

One of the most frequent complaints from those with gluten sensitivity is digestive discomfort. If you often experience bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation after eating foods with gluten, it could be a sign of gluten sensitivity.

According to a review published by the National Library of Medicine, digestive issues are among the most commonly reported symptoms. They’re typically worse after eating foods like bread, pasta, or other wheat-based products. Doctors think that this reaction happens because your digestive system struggles to break down gluten properly, leading to inflammation or discomfort.

It’s important to keep track of when these symptoms appear and talk to your physician if you notice they’re linked to gluten-heavy meals.

2. Brain fog and difficulty concentrating can happen after eating gluten

Do you ever feel like your mind is in a haze after a meal? Brain fog, a state where you feel mentally unclear or have difficulty focusing, can be another sign of gluten sensitivity. Some people report feeling spaced out, confused, or even slightly dizzy after consuming gluten.

Scientific studies have proven that gluten sensitivity might trigger these symptoms because it impacts the brain’s ability to process information. In some cases, experts think that gluten can cause inflammation, affecting brain function and causing a foggy feeling.

If you notice this symptom regularly after eating gluten-rich foods, it could be worth mentioning to your doctor.

3. Frequent headaches or migraines can be linked to gluten sensitivity

Some studies suggest that people sensitive to gluten are more prone to headaches or migraines. According to a review of the literature published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, there seems to be a connection between gluten and headaches in some individuals, though the exact reasons aren’t fully understood.

One theory is that gluten can cause an inflammatory response in the body that affects blood vessels in the brain, leading to headaches or migraines. If you frequently experience headaches after eating, it might be helpful to track your diet and see if gluten could be a potential trigger.

4. You may feel fatigue or tiredness after eating gluten-heavy meals

Feeling drained or overly tired after eating could be another sign of gluten sensitivity. Many people with gluten sensitivity report feeling extremely fatigued after consuming foods with gluten, even if they’ve had enough rest the night before.

According to a review article in PubMed Central, fatigue is a common complaint among people with non-celiac gluten sensitivity. The reason behind this could be the body’s effort to process gluten, which may trigger an inflammatory response, sapping your energy.

If you find yourself feeling unusually tired after eating gluten, it might be time to assess your diet and consult a physician.

5. Joint pain and inflammation may be caused by gluten sensitivity

Joint pain isn’t usually the first symptom people think of when they consider gluten sensitivity, but it can be a real issue for some. Several studies have pointed out that gluten sensitivity may trigger inflammation in the body, which can lead to pain in the joints, especially in areas like the knees, hips, and wrists.

For those with gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can spark an immune response that causes inflammation throughout the body. If you’re noticing unexplained joint pain, particularly after eating gluten-containing foods, talk to your doctor about whether gluten could be playing a role.

6. Skin problems such as rashes or eczema can be linked to gluten consumption

Skin issues, such as rashes, hives, or eczema, are another lesser-known sign of gluten sensitivity. Some people with gluten sensitivity experience skin reactions when they consume gluten.

One skin condition associated with gluten sensitivity is dermatitis herpetiformis, a blistering skin rash that can occur when gluten is ingested. While this condition is more common in people with celiac disease, those with gluten sensitivity can also experience itchy or inflamed skin after eating gluten.

If you have unexplained skin issues that flare up after eating gluten, it could be worth exploring whether your diet is playing a role.

How to confirm gluten sensitivity

While these signs might point to gluten sensitivity, they aren’t enough to diagnose it on their own. Doctors recommend keeping a food diary to track symptoms and what you eat, as this can help identify patterns.

If you suspect you have gluten sensitivity, talk to your physician. They may suggest trying an elimination diet, where you avoid gluten for a few weeks and then reintroduce it to see if symptoms improve or return. However, it’s important to do this under medical supervision, as removing gluten from your diet can sometimes cause other health concerns, particularly if you’re not careful about getting enough nutrients.

There’s no definitive test for gluten sensitivity, but your doctor can help rule out other conditions, such as celiac disease or a wheat allergy, before making a diagnosis.