10 Symptoms And Side Effects Of Gluten Intolerance To Watch Out For!

Struggling to digest a pizza or your favourite garlic naan from dinner and cannot figure out why? Gluten intolerance could be that undiscovered reason! 

Non-celiac gluten sensitivity, another name for gluten intolerance, is a condition in which people who do not have wheat allergy or celiac disease respond negatively to gluten. This protein is present in wheat, barley, and rye. It affects many people worldwide and is often confused with the autoimmune condition celiac disease. While gluten intolerance does not harm the small intestine, celiac disease does. It may, nonetheless, result in some unpleasant symptoms, such as bloating and diarrhoea. 

Although the precise mechanisms underlying gluten intolerance are still poorly known, the condition has a substantial negative impact on quality of life. You must follow a gluten-free diet to reduce discomfort and enhance overall health. Read along to learn about the symptoms and side effects of gluten intolerance.
 

Table Of Contents

1. 10 Gluten Intolerance Symptoms To Watch Out For 

2. What Are The Common Gluten Side Effects? 

3. Dietitian’s Recommendation

4. The Final Say

5. FAQs

6. References

10 Gluten Intolerance Symptoms To Watch Out For 

Let’s have a look at the gluten allergy symptoms: 
 

1. Bloating

Stomach bloating is a common symptom of gluten intolerance, where the abdomen feels full and swollen after eating gluten-containing foods. This happens due to the fermentation of undigested gluten in the gut, producing gas. The trapped gas causes the stomach to distend, creating discomfort and a feeling of heaviness. 

Bloating can be particularly pronounced after meals and can last several hours. Avoiding gluten can help alleviate this symptom, as the gut no longer has to process the troublesome protein, reducing the production of gas and the associated bloating.
 

2. Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea is frequent, loose, or watery stools, a common symptom of gluten intolerance. When someone with gluten intolerance consumes gluten, it can aggravate the digestive system, resulting in inflammation and accelerated food passage through the intestines. This results in poorly formed stools that are expelled quickly. 

Chronic diarrhoea can lead to dehydration and nutrient deficiencies due to reduced absorption time in the intestines. Eliminating gluten from the diet typically resolves diarrhoea, allowing the digestive system to function more normally and efficiently absorb nutrients. 

Also Read: Isabgol For Diarrhoea: Know About Its Dosages | ToneOpCare 
 

3. Constipation

Constipation, or infrequent and difficult bowel movements, can also be a symptom of gluten intolerance. The inflammation caused by gluten can slow down gut motility, making it harder for stools to pass through the intestines. This results in hard, dry stools and infrequent bowel movements. Constipation can cause abdominal pain and discomfort. 

Removing gluten from the diet can help restore normal gut function, improving stool consistency and regularity. You can also take ToneOp Care’s Isab Go+ sachets for relief while simultaneously eliminating gluten from your diet. 
 

4. Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is a frequent complaint among those with gluten intolerance. The pain is commonly in the lower abdomen and can vary from minor discomfort to intense cramps. Inflammation and irritation in the intestines brought on by gluten consumption frequently result in this pain. The digestive system's response to gluten can trigger spasms in the intestinal muscles, leading to cramping and pain. 
 

5. Gas

Excessive gas is another common symptom of gluten intolerance. Gluten can be improperly digested and fermented by bacteria in the large intestine when ingested. This fermentation process produces gases like hydrogen, methane, and carbon dioxide, leading to bloating, flatulence, and discomfort. The buildup of gas can cause pain and pressure in the abdomen.
 

6. Headaches

Headaches, including migraines, can be a concerning symptom of gluten intolerance. It is believed that gluten-induced inflammation and immune responses may contribute to headache development. 

Gluten can cause the body to go into an inflammatory state, impacting the neurological system and causing headaches. The stress and discomfort of digestive symptoms can also contribute to headache occurrence. Many individuals report a reduction in headache frequency and severity when they adopt a gluten-free diet, suggesting a link between gluten and headache triggers.
 

7. Fatigue

Chronic fatigue is a common symptom of gluten intolerance. The body's immune response to gluten can lead to systemic inflammation, which can cause a persistent feeling of tiredness and low energy. Plus, digestive issues like diarrhoea and nutrient absorption can lead to fatigue by depriving the body of essential nutrients for energy production. 

When people cut gluten out of their diet, their bodies no longer have to deal with the inflammatory reaction that gluten causes, which frequently results in an increase in energy and a decrease in weariness.
 

8. Joint Pain

Gluten intolerance may be associated with joint discomfort and inflammation. Gluten can cause systemic inflammation, which can hamper the joints and cause pain and stiffness due to the immunological response it triggers. This inflammatory reaction can mimic arthritis symptoms, causing discomfort and reduced mobility. 

Removing gluten from your diet can help reduce inflammation in the body as a whole, ease joint pain, and enhance joint health in general. After converting to a gluten-free diet, many people with gluten intolerance report experiencing great alleviation from joint discomfort.
 

9. Mood Changes

Mood changes, including irritability, stress, anxiety, and depression, can be symptoms of gluten intolerance. The gut-brain connection suggests that inflammation and immune responses in the gut can affect neurotransmitter levels and brain function. 

Gluten-induced inflammation may alter the balance of serotonin and other mood-regulating chemicals in the brain, leading to mood disturbances. Additionally, the stress and discomfort of managing gluten intolerance can contribute to anxiety and depression. Adopting a gluten-free diet can help improve mood by reducing gut inflammation and promoting a healthier gut-brain interaction.
 

10. Brain Fog

Brain fog is characterised by difficulty concentrating, mental fatigue, and cloudiness or confusion. This symptom can be linked to gluten intolerance through the gut-brain axis, where inflammation and immune responses in the gut impact cognitive function. 

Gluten-induced inflammation can disrupt the normal functioning of neurotransmitters and brain signals, leading to cognitive impairments. Many individuals with gluten intolerance report clearer thinking and improved mental function after eliminating gluten from their diet, suggesting that a gluten-free diet can help alleviate brain fog symptoms.

Also Read: Gluten Intolerance VS Celiac Disease: Know 7 Differences In Symptoms, Treatment And More! 
 

What Are The Common Gluten Side Effects?

Here are some side effects of gluten that you may encounter if you are gluten intolerant:

1. Neurological Symptoms

Neurological signs of gluten sensitivity may consist of brain fog, trouble focusing, cognitive tiredness, and disorientation. People may also suffer from headaches or migraines as a result of gluten-induced inflammation impacting the nervous system. 

Anxiety, depression, and irritability are frequently seen and believed to be connected to disturbances in the gut-brain axis. The reason for these symptoms is that gluten can cause systemic inflammation and immune reactions that affect brain function and neurotransmitter balance. 
 

2. Nutrient Deficiencies

Gluten intolerance can lead to nutrient deficiencies due to chronic digestive issues and inflammation in the gut. Persistent diarrhoea and malabsorption can prevent the body from absorbing essential nutrients like iron, calcium, and B vitamins. This can result in anaemia, weakened bones, and other health problems. 

By adopting a gluten-free diet, individuals can improve nutrient absorption and overall health, as the gut heals and functions more effectively, guaranteeing that the body absorbs and uses vital nutrients as intended.
 

3. Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is when the body’s immune system reacts to gluten, causing symptoms similar to gluten intolerance but often more severe. Symptoms include diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and bloating caused by inflammation and intestinal damage. Other symptoms include weight loss, fatigue, and a lack of essential nutrients due to malabsorption. 

Celiac disease can also cause skin rashes, particularly dermatitis herpetiformis, and neurological problems such as brain fog and hallucinations. Possible long-term effects include an increased risk of osteoporosis, anaemia, and other autoimmune diseases. Strict adherence to a gluten-free diet is important to control symptoms and prevent complications. 
 

4. Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) is a condition in which a person develops symptoms similar to celiac disease after eating gluten but does not cause autoimmune damage to the intestines.

Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhoea, stomach aches, fatigue, and headaches, as well as non-digestive issues such as joint pain and mood swings. Unlike celiac disease, NCGS does not cause intestinal damage or has specific biomarkers. 

Diagnosis is usually based on the improvement of symptoms on a gluten-free diet and the return of symptoms when gluten is reintroduced after ruling out celiac disease and wheat allergies. 

Also Read: 7 Common Gut Problems And How To Fix Them For Optimal Health

Dietitian’s Recommendation

Gluten intolerance, or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, is a condition that affects many people and can significantly impact their quality of life. While it shares symptoms with celiac disease, it does not cause intestinal damage. Managing gluten intolerance involves adopting a gluten-free diet, reading labels carefully, and avoiding cross-contamination. Individuals with gluten intolerance can lead healthy and fulfilling lives with proper education and support.

                                                                            Dt. Akshata Gandevikar
 

The Final Say

Recognising the symptoms of gluten intolerance is crucial for maintaining good health. Although digestive problems are most common, it's good to be aware of other possible signals that could imply a sensitivity towards gluten. If you think you have gluten intolerance, it is best to see a healthcare professional for the correct diagnosis and advice. A gluten-free diet can significantly improve your quality of life if you are indeed sensitive to gluten.
 

FAQs

1. How is gluten harmful to the body?

Gluten can be harmful to individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, causing symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and fatigue. For these people, gluten triggers an immune response that damages the intestines and can lead to nutritional deficiencies.
 

2. How do you flush gluten out?

To flush gluten out of your system, it's essential to stop consuming gluten-containing foods immediately and drink plenty of water. This helps your body eliminate gluten more effectively while focusing on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
 

3. What are the common side effects of gluten?

Common side effects of gluten for those sensitive to it include abdominal pain, bloating, fatigue, and skin rashes. In more severe cases, it can lead to digestive issues and long-term health problems if not addressed.
 

References

• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/312898
• https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/celiac-disease/celiac-disease
• https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/celiac-disease-vs-gluten-intolerance-infographic
• https://www.healthxchange.sg/food-nutrition/food-tips/eight-dietary-tips-gluten-intolerance
   

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