"Gluten-free diets" and "gluten sensitivity" are pretty common terms because gluten intolerance has become a big health concern for a lot of people. Gluten intolerance causes many gastrointestinal problems and other symptoms that are easy to overlook, so it’s not always considered a cause. That has changed in recent years as we’ve become more aware of gluten intolerance and what it means. As of 2022, up to 30% of Americans follow a gluten-free diet and the number continues rising. Should you join them? Here are 12 surprising signs you might be gluten intolerant and you should confirm with a doctor:
You’re often bloated
Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels
We’ve all felt bloated before, but if your stomach usually feels like a balloon ready to burst after meals, gluten might be the culprit. Over 87% of people with gluten intolerance deal with uncomfortable bloating, so it’s quite a common symptom. If you’re frequently bloated, it might be time to chat with your doc. Nobody wants to feel like they’re carrying a beach ball around!
You regularly deal with diarrhea or constipation
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels
We all have stomach issues from time to time, but if you’re constantly running to the bathroom or feeling backed up, gluten could be messing with your gut. Extra stinky visits to the bathroom after gluten-heavy meals are another clue you might be gluten intolerant. Consistent diarrhea or constipation isn’t normal, it’s a sign that your gut might be crying out for help. So listen to it and get things checked!
You experience abdominal pain
Photo by Polina Zimmerman on Pexels
Tummy aches are no fun, and they’re a common sign of gluten intolerance. If your stomach’s in knots after eating gluten-filled goodies, like delicious empanadas, it’s worth noting. Abdominal pain is one of the main symptoms of gluten intolerance and it can make life very sad. If your gut feels like it’s twisting and turning after meals, it might be time to assess what you’ve been eating and go to the doctor.
You have regular headaches
Photo by Liza Summer on Pexels
Do you find yourself reaching for painkillers often? Frequent headaches or migraines can be linked to gluten sensitivity. Studies show that people who are sensitive to gluten experience more headaches and their likelihood of experiencing migraines increases. So, if your head’s pounding more than usual and especially after having your favorite Latino snacks, gluten might be to blame.
Your fatigue levels are high and your energy levels are low
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels
Feeling tired all the time for no clear reason? Gluten intolerance might be zapping your energy. Most people who are gluten intolerant feel completely wiped out after a gluten-filled meal. If you often feel like a sloth, pay attention to what you’ve been eating. If you see a lot of gluten, that could be it and you should see a doctor about it to confirm any suspicions.
Your autoimmune disease is worse
Photo by Pavel Danilyuk on Pexels
If you have an autoimmune disease, gluten could be making things worse. Consuming gluten can trigger your immune system to attack your gut, potentially leading to other autoimmune issues like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. It’s like your body’s defense team gets confused and starts attacking itself, causing all sorts of issues. If you’ve got an autoimmune condition, it’s definitely worth considering how gluten might be affecting you.
You often experience joint or muscle pain
Photo by Karolina Kaboompics on Pexels
It’s not just about your stomach; gluten can cause trouble all over your body. Do you have achy joints and muscles? Gluten might be the hidden cause. If you’re sensitive to gluten, consuming it can lower your pain threshold and cause inflammation, making those aches and pains feel worse. If you’re feeling creaky and sore, it’s worth making an appointment with your doctor to see if gluten has something to do with it.
You feel pins and needles in your legs and arms
Photo by Engin Akyurt on Pexels
Getting a tingly feeling in your legs or arms could be peripheral neuropathy, which is common in people with gluten intolerance. It feels like when your limbs are falling asleep, but way more annoying. If this tingling sensation in your legs and arms happens often, gluten might be the issue. It’s not fun at all, so you should make an appointment with your doc ASAP.
Your brain is often foggy
Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels
If you’re known as the person in the family or friend group who’s always forgetting things or having issues concentrating, it could be a gluten issue. If your brain feels foggy, particularly after eating, you should definitely look into how gluten might be affecting your brain function.
You have skin, hair, and nail problems
Photo by Ron Lach on Pexels
If your skin is acting up with rashes, psoriasis, etc., you’re losing hair all the time, and your nails are weak, gluten might be the villain. Studies show that skin conditions like dermatitis herpetiformis are linked to gluten intolerance. And if your nails are brittle, gluten might be playing a part too. This is your body’s way of waving a red flag, saying something’s not right inside. If you’re dealing with skin issues, it’s worth considering how gluten might be affecting you.
You’re experiencing unexpected weight loss
Photo by i yunmai on UnsplashIf the scale’s dropping without you trying, gluten could be causing digestive issues that prevent nutrient absorption. This is more common with celiac disease, but it’s something to watch out for if you’re losing weight unexpectedly. If this is happening to you, it means you’re not getting enough nutrients, which can affect your overall health. So make sure to talk to your doctor about it!
You have iron defiency anemia
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels
Last but not least, iron deficiency anemia is often linked to gluten intolerance, so if you have it, that’s another sign. The thing with gluten is that it can mess with your body’s ability to absorb iron if you’re sensitive to it, leading to a lack of this crucial mineral. It’s like your body’s engine running low on fuel, making everything feel harder. If you’re constantly fatigued and weak, gluten could be the issue.
