This is the protein compound found in many grains, including wheat, rye, barley, spelt etc.
Digestive symptoms may include: bloating, wind, heartburn, diarrhoea or constipation.
Nervous system issues such as: moodiness, difficulty thinking clearly, poor energy, hyperactivity.
Skin symptoms including: eczema, dermatitis, mouth ulcers.
Other symptoms: weakness, run down, chronic iron deficiency, poor sleep, autism/ADHD.
If you suspect you may be gluten intolerant, please do NOT go on a gluten free diet until you have had your blood tests done. Speak to your GP about the following tests:
tTG antibody
IgG-gliadin
IgA-gliadin
Ferritin
Haemoglobin
CRP
Coelics disease (gluten allergy) sufferers have a positive tTG blood test result, and the diagnosis is confirmed by endoscopy. Gluten intolerance or sensitivity may also show a positive blood test result but the endoscopy will be clear.
The majority of patients we see in clinic do NOT have Coelics disease, but may experience all or many of the symptoms. We begin a gluten free trial, and if their symptoms improve, then it is very likely they are gluten sensitive and would benefit from following a gluten free diet.
For those interested in reading more, I recommend the book "The Gluten Syndrome" by Dr Rodney Ford (2008).