3 gluten-related issues

Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, rye, and barley. Here are three health issues related to its consumption.

1. Wheat allergy
People who are allergic to wheat will have an autoimmune response if they consume it. This can result in trouble breathing, abdominal cramping, a drop in blood pressure, hives, redness, and other hallmark symptoms of an allergic reaction. While rare, anaphylaxis can occur.

2. Celiac disease
This chronic autoimmune condition primarily affects the small intestine, which becomes inflamed if gluten is consumed. This results in gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. The condition can also cause systemic problems like chronic fatigue, depression, anemia, and in some cases, osteoporosis.

3. Non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS)
This controversial and still poorly understood condition is currently only diagnosed when a patient’s issues with gluten are clearly not due to a wheat allergy or celiac disease. Its symptoms, which include headaches, eczema, and joint pain, manifest after ingesting gluten and subside once it’s eliminated from the diet. Because of its close association with fad diets and dubious claims made by self-professed nutrition experts, there’s been resistance to recognizing NCGS as a legitimate diagnosis.

If eating foods that contain gluten causes you to experience unusual symptoms, be sure to consult your doctor.