Gluten Intolerance: What It Is and How to Live to With It

In the shadow of the recent gluten-free diet trend, many individuals became aware of the popular protein for the first time.

Recent research indicated that around 6% of individuals in the U.S. have gluten intolerance, which is also known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity. But what is gluten exactly? And what does it mean to have gluten intolerance?

A Family of Proteins

When we talk about gluten, we're referring to a family of storage proteins found in certain grains like wheat, barley and rye.

The Celiac Disease Foundation says gluten helps foods maintain their shape, acting like glue holding foods together.

It can be found in many different foods, including bread, pasta, soups, cereals, sauces and even salad dressing.

The Range of Symptoms

It's unclear what exactly causes individuals to develop gluten intolerance. Experts believe it has a lot to do with environmental factors, including the relatively recent introduction of wheat into humanity's diet and the aggressive expansion of wheat production beginning in the mid-20th century.

While the origin of gluten intolerance is still uncertain, many of the symptoms are familiar and can range from causing discomfort to requiring emergency care.

Here are some common symptoms if you have gluten intolerance and eat foods with wheat, barley or rye:

• Tiredness
• Bloating
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Sense of feeling sick or unwell

Other potentially more serious symptoms could include:

• Numbness
• Joint or muscle pain
• Rash
• Confusion
• Headaches
• Anxiety

If you experience these symptoms after eating foods containing gluten, make an appointment with your primary care provider. After discussing your symptoms, your doctor may want to perform tests to rule out other gastrointestinal conditions.

If your symptoms are severe, like serious abdominal pain or continued diarrhea, you should seek emergency care.

Living with Gluten Intolerance

If you are diagnosed with gluten intolerance, the largest impact to your lifestyle will likely be having to monitor your diet on a daily basis.

You'll be familiar with the process as diet monitoring along with knowing what foods you can enjoy without getting an upset stomach.

Some foods that are naturally gluten-free and will likely become a major part of your diet if they aren't already include:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Beans, lentils and peas
• Rice
• Quinoa
• Potatoes

You will also be able to enjoy certain oat products, but always check labels carefully to ensure your groceries are gluten-free.

Make an Appointment

Wondering if you have gluten intolerance? Book an appointment with your primary care doctor through MyChart.

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