3 Conditions Related To Gluten

3 Conditions Related To Gluten   

Many people have heard about gluten and the trouble that it can cause for those who have a reaction to it. Gluten is the protein that can be found in wheat, barley, and rye, which means that it is found in just about anything that contains flour. It can affect different people in different ways, but it all relies on gluten. 

The Big Three 

There are three major ways in which gluten can negatively affect a person’s health, and though they are very similar, they are not equal. 

• Celiac Disease. This is an autoimmune disease that causes damage to the small intestine when gluten is ingested. This damage can prevent absorption of nutrients. Celiac disease can cause severe digestive problems, skin rashes, joint pain, fatigue, and a host of other symptoms. 
• Gluten Intolerance. This is a sensitivity to gluten that can produce many of the same symptoms as celiac, but it is not an autoimmune disease and it does not affect the small intestine. Gluten intolerance can increase depression and anxiety in those who are afflicted. 
• Wheat Allergy. This is a separate condition than celiac or gluten intolerance. It’s a histamine reaction to wheat that is similar to a peanut or shellfish allergy. It can cause hives, stomach pain, or a rash after a person eats wheat. 

In all three conditions, the body mistakes gluten as a foreign invader that should not be there and works to fight it off by using inflammation responses. With all three, the best treatment is to completely avoid anything that contains gluten.  

Removing All Gluten 

There is no cure for any of the conditions that are caused by gluten. The only way to alleviate the symptoms is to remove items that contain gluten from your life. Not only does this include food, but other non-food products where gluten is least expected such as medication, lip-balm, vitamin supplements, and hygiene products.

There are many products available today that are certified gluten-free and safe for anyone with celiac, gluten intolerance, or a wheat allergy. Gluten-free cereals, snacks, flours for baking, and breads can be found for the diet, and non-food gluten-free items such as soap, body lotion, and deodorants are available as well. As more people get diagnosed or realise their sensitivities, more companies are providing a way for them to stay healthy and enjoy life to the fullest without discomfort.