Investigating the Impact of Gluten on Gut Health and Autoimmune Disorders
Are you frequently experiencing bloating, abdominal pain, or other unpleasant symptoms after eating? You might be dealing with gluten intolerance. Gluten gets a lot of buzz, and I want to talk about it. It is important to understand the difference between celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. I will also discuss the link between gluten, inflammation, and autoimmune disorders. Lastly, I'll talk about 5 steps you can take to manage gluten sensitivity.
Difference Between Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivity
Let's begin by differentiating between two major types of gluten intolerance: celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS).
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition where consuming gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye—damages the lining of the small intestine. This can lead to nutrient malabsorption and various gastrointestinal symptoms. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests and a biopsy of the small intestine. The only effective treatment is a lifelong, strict gluten-free diet.
Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity
Unlike celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity does not involve an autoimmune response or intestinal damage. However, people with NCGS experience similar symptoms, such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea. Additional symptoms can include fatigue, headaches, joint pain, and brain fog. These can manifest hours or even days after consuming gluten.
How Gluten Affects Inflammation and Autoimmune Disorders
Disruption of the Gut Lining
Gluten can disrupt the tight junctions in the gut lining, allowing toxins, bacteria, and partially digested food particles to enter the bloodstream—a condition known as "leaky gut." Zonulin, a protein that regulates gut permeability, is affected by gluten, leading to this increased permeability.
Inflammation and Autoimmune Diseases
Leaky gut contributes to systemic inflammation and has been linked to various autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes. For those with autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s, gluten can trigger the immune system to attack the thyroid gland, worsening symptoms.
Diagnostic Tests for Gluten Sensitivity
The Wheat Zoomer Test
A functional medicine practitioner may recommend the Wheat Zoomer test, which evaluates the immune response to gluten and related peptides. It also screens for intestinal permeability, celiac disease, and gluten-related autoimmunity.
Comprehensive Stool Test
This test can detect anti-gliadin secretory IgA (SIgA) antibodies in the digestive tract, providing insight into the immune response to gluten and the overall gut microbiome health.
Thyroid Panel and Micronutrient Test
A comprehensive thyroid panel can identify if gluten antibodies are impacting thyroid function. A micronutrient test assesses nutrient absorption, which can be impaired in individuals with gluten sensitivity.
Actionable Steps to Manage Gluten Sensitivity
1. Eliminate Gluten from Your Diet
The first step in managing gluten sensitivity is eliminating gluten from your diet. A strict gluten-free diet allows your body time to heal and stop producing antibodies against gluten. After six months, many individuals see a reduction in symptoms and antibodies. At this point, you can reintroduce gluten cautiously and monitor your symptoms.
2. Make Nutritious Food Choices
Gluten-free diets can vary. Opt for whole foods instead of processed gluten-free alternatives, which may be nutrient-poor. Consider a paleo or modified paleo diet, which includes organic, gluten-free grains like amaranth, buckwheat, and quinoa. Be vigilant with food labels, as gluten can hide in many products.
3. Incorporate Polyphenols
Polyphenols, found in plants, act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents. Curcumin, from turmeric, is particularly effective. It binds to gluten, reducing its bioavailability and helping to protect and heal the gut lining.
4. Reduce Stress
Stress exacerbates leaky gut and immune reactions. Incorporate stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises into your routine to support your gut health and overall well-being.
5. Work With a Functional Medicine Practitioner
A functional medicine provider can help you identify if gluten sensitivity is causing your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan. They can also recommend appropriate diagnostic tests and guide you through dietary modifications and nutrient supplementation.
Conclusion
Gluten intolerance can have far-reaching effects on your health, contributing to both gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms. Understanding the difference between celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity is crucial for proper diagnosis and management. By eliminating gluten, making nutritious food choices, incorporating polyphenols into your diet, reducing stress, and working with a functional medicine practitioner, you can effectively manage gluten sensitivity and improve your quality of life.
For more information: grab your FREE Gut Health Guide, and book a FREE 15- Minute Gut Reset Session.
-Ashley
CEO, FNP, Functional Wellness Coach
Wellness with AO
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