What is gluten sensitivity?
Gluten is a protein that is found in many different types of grain. Foods that contain gluten include bread, pasta and pizza. They can be consumed by most people without any problems.
However, a part of the population suffers from gluten sensitivity, also known as non-Coeliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). In contrast to gluten intolerance, this sensitivity does not lead to chronic inflammation of the intestine, but merely causes a hypersensitivity reaction. Affected persons usually suffer from gastrointestinal complaints. However, fatigue and headaches can also be caused by the consumption of foods containing gluten.
The causes
Gluten sensitivity is based on an intolerance to gluten. Gluten is a protein that is found in various types of grain, such as wheat and spelt. The consumption of gluten-containing foods has increased greatly in the last century.
In this context, it has been observed that more people suffer from gluten sensitivity. However, the exact mechanism that leads to the development of this disease is not known. It is known, however, that no antibodies are formed that lead to the destruction of the intestinal mucosa.
An autoimmune disease, as in celiac disease, is therefore excluded. Furthermore, it is also known that there is no allergy. In case of allergic reactions, the immune system produces antibodies of the IgE class.
In patients suffering from gluten sensitivity, these antibodies are not detectable, so that it can be concluded that another mechanism is behind it. There may be a correlation with increased consumption of gluten-containing foods, as foods such as wheat have been genetically modified. This may affect digestion and lead to the disease pattern of gluten sensitivity. However, this is currently the subject of research, so it is not yet possible to make any reliable statements.
The symptoms
The symptoms of gluten sensitivity are highly variable. The most common are gastrointestinal complaints. These can manifest themselves in the form of nausea, abdominal pain, flatulence, constipation and diarrhoea.
The constipation and diarrhea can occur alternately and resemble an irritable bowel. The diarrhoea can in turn lead to iron and vitamin deficiency, which can manifest itself in different ways – for example, through anaemia. Furthermore, symptoms such as headaches, concentration problems and chronic fatigue can occur.
Muscle and joint pain have also been observed in connection with gluten sensitivity. Some patients report sensory disturbances in the hands and feet. Furthermore, gluten sensitivity also appears to cause skin problems.
The patients’ skin is often reddened and itchy. In some cases, eczema can also occur. Eczema is an inflammatory skin disease that manifests itself in the form of blisters and crusts.
Psychiatric complaints such as mood swings, depression and anxiety disorders have also been observed. If gluten sensitivity is suspected, it is recommended to avoid foods containing gluten for one month. After one month, the improvement of some complaints should be observed.
This will help you to better judge which symptoms are caused exactly by sensitivity and which symptoms are caused by something else. If the complaints persist despite the diet, a doctor should be consulted. It is possible that another disease is hidden behind these symptoms.
