According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, gluten affects approximately 1 in 100 people worldwide, but only about 30% are properly diagnosed (n.d). Gluten intolerance occurs when the body cannot digest gluten found in wheat, barley, and rye. This intolerance can lead to many uncomfortable symptoms and long-term health problems.
Understanding Gluten Intolerance
Gluten intolerance is a condition that can manifest in a variety of ways. Some people may experience mild digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Others may experience more severe symptoms, such as abdominal pain, fatigue, and weight loss (Oyarzún et al., 2016). In some cases, gluten intolerance can cause celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder that attacks the small intestine (Roy et al., 2016). This can lead to the malabsorption of nutrients, which can cause a range of long-term health problems, including anemia, osteoporosis, and even infertility (Roy et al., 2016).
Diagnosing celiac disease or gluten sensitivity is possible by undergoing various tests. These tests are essential for measuring specific immune responses. People can also try a trial period of eliminating gluten from their diet to see if their symptoms improve.
Living Gluten-Free
If someone is diagnosed with gluten intolerance, the only effective treatment is a strict gluten-free diet (Oyarzún et al., 2016). It means avoiding all sources of gluten, including wheat, barley, rye, and any products made from these grains. It can be challenging, as gluten is found in many common foods, such as bread, pasta, and cereal. However, many gluten-free alternatives are available, including gluten-free bread, pasta, and cereals made from alternative grains such as corn, rice, and quinoa.
Following a strict gluten-free diet is essential for those who suffer from gluten intolerance. It can help to ease symptoms and prevent long-term health problems. Gluten-free diets are crucial for celiac disease, as continued exposure to gluten can lead to severe complications such as anemia, osteoporosis, and even certain types of cancer (UC San Diego Health, n.d). In addition to improving physical health, a gluten-free diet can improve mental health, as gluten intolerance has been linked to depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders (Celiac Disease Foundation n.d).
Gluten intolerance is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide. If you suspect you may be gluten intolerant, seeking medical attention and following a strict gluten-free diet is vital. It can help you to reduce symptoms and prevent long-term health problems. While living gluten-free can be challenging, many gluten-free alternatives can make it easier to stick to a healthy, gluten-free lifestyle. Embarking on a gluten-free diet is not easy, but many options are available. Eating healthy and eating delicious can go hand in hand with Sabroso™, as we strive to provide gluten-free food that is healthy and tasty!
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By: SABROSO FOODS
References:
Celiac Disease Foundation. (n.d.). What is celiac disease? Celiac Disease Foundation. Retrieved from https://celiac.org/about-celiac-disease/what-is-celiac-disease/
Modify Health. (n.d.). What is a gluten-free diet & does it really work? ModifyHealth. Retrieved from https://modifyhealth.com/pages/what-is-a-gluten-free-diet
Oyarzún, A., Nakash, T., Ayala, J., Lucero, Y., & Araya, M. (2016). Following gluten free diet: Less available, higher cost and poor nutritional profile of gluten-free school snacks. International Journal of Celiac Disease, 3(3), 102–107. https://doi.org/10.12691/ijcd-3-3-3
Roy, A., Minaya, M., Monegro, M., Fleming, J., Wong, R. K., Lewis, S., Lebwohl, B., & Green, P. H. (2016). Partner burden: A common entity in celiac disease. Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 61(12), 3451–3459. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10620-016-4175-5
UC San Diego Health. (n.d.). Celiac disease program: UC San Diego Health. Celiac Disease Program | UC San Diego Health. Retrieved from https://prod.health.ucsd.edu/care/gastroenterology/celiac-food-intolerance/