For many people eating gluten can be really bad news. Possibly suffering for years without realising they have a non-coeliac gluten sensitivity.
Experiencing digestive issues, fatigue, IBS, headaches, joint pain, brain fog may be some of the symptoms you could be experiencing.
I will often recommend an elimination diet for my clients including eliminating gluten in order to allow the gut to heal.
Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, barley and rye and in products such as bread, cereals, pasta etc.
Gliadin is the protein in gluten that can break down the microvilli in the small intestine and this deterioration can cause intestinal hyper-permeability (leaky-gut), food sensitivities, intolerances and allergies.
Additionally, gluten can damage the gut and release a compound called zonulin, which also effects the tight junctions to open.
Leaky gut can occur due to damage to the gut wall when there is an increase in the permeability of the gut lining (intestinal mucosa). This can lead to inflammation in the body which can then be associated with many health conditions.
Some people respond well to removing gluten from the diet, but this should not be mistaken for having Coeliac Disease.
Coeliac disease is not an intolerance or food allergy, it is an autoimmune disease.
Cutting gluten out of the diet can seem very difficult at first, but luckily there are many delicious and healthy gluten-free alternatives.
Always read labels carefully for hidden ingredients and bear in mind that many products made with gluten-free alternatives may add extra sugar or additives.