Gluten Sensitivity
Symptoms of Gluten Sensitivity
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Nutritional deficiencies due to malabsorbtion e.g. low iron levels
- Gastro-intestinal problems (bloating, pain, gas, constipation, diarrhea)
- Fat in the stools (due to poor digestion)
- Aching joints
- Depression
- Eczema
- Head aches
- Exhaustion
- Irritability and behavioural changes
- Infertility, irregular menstrual cycle and miscarriage
- Cramps, tingling and numbness
- Slow infant and child growth
- Decline in dental health
Testing of Gluten Sensitivity
- Cyrex Laboratories offers the most complete work-up of this condition. Test kits are available in the office
Causes/Risk Factors of Gluten Sensitivity
Some people are born with Gluten Sensitivity or even full blown Celiac disease. However, most develop it as a consequence of environmental triggers and modified grains that alter the state of the immune system.
- Genetically modified (GMO) foods
- Gluten deamidation
- Gluten Storage in bins for long periods of time, leading to enterotoxin contamination
- Hygiene Hypothesis
- Leaky gut syndrome
- Chronic Stress-breakdown of immune tolerance
- Poor Nutrition
- Enzyme insufficiency
Support/Management of Gluten Sensitivity
- Education
- Gluten Free Diet
- Immune support
- Gut repair program
- Specific digestive enzymes to break down gluten