For some people, gluten is a nonchalant companion to every meal. But for others, it’s the common denominator in a range of health issues. Driven by a surge in gluten-free product availability and growing recognition of gluten as a potential health hazard, the gluten-free diet has now entered the mainstream. But is this diet right for you? Read on to learn more about gluten and the various signs you might want to go gluten free.

Understanding Gluten

Gluten is a group of proteins primarily found in wheat, barley, and rye. This substance is a glue that holds food together, providing elasticity and shape. Its presence is notable in bread, pasta, cakes, and many processed foods, contributing to their chewy textures and structural integrity.

Gluten isn’t inherently harmful to everyone; however, it can trigger adverse reactions in individuals with certain health conditions, such as celiac disease, wheat allergies, or gluten sensitivity. Recognizing these conditions and understanding the role of gluten in them is crucial for managing symptoms and maintaining health with an appropriate diet.

Signs of Wheat Allergies

Wheat allergies are immune responses to the proteins found in wheat—including gluten—which result in symptoms ranging from mild to severe. These symptoms may manifest as hives, difficulty breathing, or gastrointestinal problems shortly after the consumption of wheat products. Unlike celiac disease, which affects the small intestine’s lining and is triggered specifically by gluten, wheat allergies can be triggered by any of the proteins present in wheat.

It’s important for individuals with wheat allergies to carefully read food labels and possibly avoid foods that contain wheat and its derivatives, as reactions can vary greatly in intensity and may require immediate medical attention.

Signs of Gluten Sensitivity

Gluten sensitivity, also known as nonceliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), is a condition that elicits symptoms similar to those of celiac disease but without the autoimmune intestinal damage. Individuals with gluten sensitivities might experience abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, headaches, fatigue, and even depression or anxiety after consuming gluten-containing foods. Unlike celiac disease or wheat allergy, there’s no definitive test for diagnosing NCGS, making it challenging to pinpoint. Therefore, people suspecting gluten sensitivity are often advised to undergo food elimination diets under medical supervision to assess whether their symptoms improve upon removing gluten from their diets.

Signs of Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition in which ingesting gluten leads to damage in the small intestine, seriously impairing nutrient absorption. This damage results from an immune response that attacks the intestine’s lining after the consumption of gluten. Symptoms of celiac disease can vary widely, but they often include severe digestive issues (such as diarrhea, bloating, and gas), iron deficiency, anemia, fatigue, bone or joint pain, arthritis, osteoporosis, liver disorders, and depression or irritability. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment and for avoiding long-term health complications. Celiac disease necessitates a strict, lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet, which is the only effective treatment for managing this condition and healing the intestinal damage.

These are just some of the signs you might want to go gluten-free, but individuals without any of these complications may still prefer gluten-free food products. Getting a professional opinion from a medical practitioner regarding any and all of these health complications is important. The Rise & Puff team is here to help your journey with our great tasting low-calorie, gluten-free tortilla.