Different types of gluten sensitivities exist, including the most major intolerance celiac disease, a genetic autoimmune disorder where the body creates an immune response to the ingestion of gluten, causing damage to the small intestine. This damage affects the villi lining the small intestine responsible for nutrient absorption. Celiac affects 1 in 100 people globally, however a projected two and a half million Americans are undiagnosed. If a person has someone in their immediate family with celiac, chances of this person also having celiac is one in ten. If left untreated, celiac can cause long-term health issues and conditions. These include anemia, infertility, osteoporosis, osteopenia, vitamin deficiencies, intestinal lymphomas, GI cancers, central and peripheral nervous system disorders, gall bladder malfunction, and various forms of neurological manifestations, such as ataxia, dementia, epileptic seizures, migraine, neuropathy, and more.
In addition, non-celiac gluten sensitivities exist as well with similar symptoms, but does not include intestinal damage. This is because gluten sensitivities are innate immune responses, a system all people have which fights invading organisms. However, the reaction does not attack self tissue, which is the case for autoimmune diseases, as the reaction is antigen specific. Those with gluten sensitivities often experience symptoms including what is known as brain fog (having trouble thinking clearly), dizziness, clumsiness, fatigue, memory problems, mood issues, trouble concentrating, migraines, inflammation, numb sensations in the legs and arms, constipation, and joint pain.
There are certain brain based conditions that have been known to benefit from a gluten-free diet.
To be certain, visiting a doctor for an allergy test is highly recommended, especially if a person is experiencing any of the symptoms listed, as the ingestion of gluten for a person with some kind of sensitivity directly impacts day-to-day life.
2019 UPDATE: What Foods Should I Seek?
If you have any of the above conditions, but love eating gluten, try some gluten-free alternatives to your favorite foods. Brown rice pasta is the perfect example. Luckily, more and more gluten free products have become popular, so ask your local grocery store if they have a "gluten free" section.
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