Gluten Sensitivity?

Gluten sensitivity runs rampant among the human species. In fact, approximately one out of one-hundred people are sensitive to gluten. However the majority of the population is not aware of the signs or symptoms. The range of these reactions can be a mild reaction to a severe diagnosis such as Celiac Disease. Gluten sensitivity and Celiac Disease come from an intolerance of the digestive system when it is unable to break-down proteins in the body called gluten. These proteins can be found in foods containing wheat, rye and barley. Reading labels is a daunting task when almost everything we consume contains some form of these grains.

Those living with sensitivity to gluten will notice common symptoms such as:

• Abdominal cramping, intestinal gas
• Distention and bloating of the stomach
• Chronic diarrhea, constipation or both
• Fatty stools
• Anemia—unexplained, due to folic acid, B12 or iron deficiency (or all)
• Unexplained weight loss with large appetite or weight gain
• Dental enamel defects
• Osteopenia, osteoporosis
• Bone or joint pain
• Fatigue, weakness or lack of energy
• Infertility—male/female
• Mouth ulcers
• Delayed puberty
• Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
• Migraine headaches
• Behavior changes/depression/irritability

Social media has also created an awareness of Celiac Disease and gluten sensitivity. Celebrities seem to be on the gluten-free campaign as well. One popular diet, the Paleo-diet, is based on the early human concept of hunting and gathering. Grains have been left out of this diet because they were much later introduced with the onset of an agricultural lifestyle. Changing one’s diet to fruits, vegetables, meats and nuts is the suggested way of coping with these ailments. Many who have done this report the disappearance of the gluten sensitivity symptoms.

So no more bread, pasta, crackers, oatmeal and mac n’ cheese for the gluten sensitive person? Not true. Many manufacturers are creating gluten-free versions of favorite food staples. Having a gluten-free diet is becoming more and more accessible and convenient. Many popular grocery chains are including sections of their stores devoted to gluten-free products.