Why is Gluten Bad?

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. It's what gives these foods their chewy texture and elasticity. When we eat gluten, it's broken down into smaller peptides in our digestive tract. These peptides can then trigger an immune response in some people, leading to a variety of health problems.

Gluten Can Cause Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that damages the lining of the small intestine. It is the most severe form of gluten intolerance and can lead to a variety of serious health problems, including:

• Chronic diarrhea and weight loss
• Anemia
• Osteoporosis
• Infertility
• Neurological problems
• Skin problems

Celiac disease affects about 1% of the population, but many people have it without knowing it. If you think you may have celiac disease, talk to your doctor about getting tested.

Gluten Can Cause Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity

Non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) is a condition that causes symptoms similar to celiac disease, but without the damage to the small intestine. Symptoms of NCGS can include:

• Bloating
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Skin problems
• Depression

The exact cause of NCGS is unknown, but it is thought to be related to an immune response to gluten. NCGS is more common than celiac disease, affecting up to 13% of the population.

Gluten Can Worsen Other Health Conditions

Gluten can also worsen the symptoms of other health conditions, such as:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Crohn's disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Multiple sclerosis
• Autism spectrum disorder

If you have one of these conditions, you may want to consider avoiding gluten to see if it improves your symptoms.

How to Avoid Gluten

If you have celiac disease or NCGS, you will need to avoid all foods that contain gluten. This includes bread, pasta, cereal, cookies, cakes, and most processed foods. There are many gluten-free alternatives available, so you can still enjoy a healthy and varied diet.

Conclusion

Gluten is a protein that can cause health problems in some people. If you think you may have celiac disease or NCGS, talk to your doctor about getting tested. There are many gluten-free alternatives available, so you can still enjoy a healthy and varied diet without gluten.

FAQs

Q: What foods contain gluten?

A: Gluten is found in wheat, rye, and barley. It is also found in many processed foods, such as bread, pasta, cereal, cookies, cakes, and beer.

Q: What are the symptoms of celiac disease?

A: Symptoms of celiac disease can include chronic diarrhea and weight loss, anemia, osteoporosis, infertility, neurological problems, and skin problems.

Q: What are the symptoms of non-celiac gluten sensitivity?

A: Symptoms of non-celiac gluten sensitivity can include bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, headaches, skin problems, and depression.

Q: How can I avoid gluten?

A: If you have celiac disease or NCGS, you will need to avoid all foods that contain gluten. This includes bread, pasta, cereal, cookies, cakes, and most processed foods. There are many gluten-free alternatives available, so you can still enjoy a healthy and varied diet.

Q: Is there a cure for celiac disease or NCGS?

A: There is no cure for celiac disease or NCGS. However, both conditions can be managed by following a gluten-free diet.