Bloating, acid reflux, heartburn and a change in bathroom habits are just a few of the many symptoms of celiac disease,  an autoimmune disorder that affects around 1 in 100 Americans. The disease is caused by severe gluten intolerance. If you have celiac, eating gluten triggers an immune response which cause your body to attack and damage  the small intestine.

Gluten is a specific type of protein, but one you won't find in meat or eggs. Instead gluten is found in wheat, rye, and barley. Gluten is in a variety of foods, but one of the toughest to give up for most people is bread. Fortunately, there are many gluten free products today that are actually very tasty.   

Although the exact cause of celiac disease isn't known, you are at a greater risk if celiac disease runs in your family. The initial test for a gluten allergy or intolerance is a blood test. Talk with your doctor if you have any symptoms of celiac disease.

Think you might have a gluten allergy? Stay tuned as we list the 10 most common gluten symptoms. 

  • 1

    Digestive Issues

    Look out for frequent gas, bloating, diarrhea and constipation. Sure, these sound like normal, every now and then symptoms, but if they happen too often, you may want to talk to your doctor.

  • 2

    Fatigue

    Those affected with the allergen usually experience fatigue or what some call (brain fog) after eating a meal that contains gluten. Sound like you? Go get it checked!

  • 3

    Migraines

    Are you experiencing extreme pain when it comes to headache? The next time it occurs think about what you ate and if it contained gluten. If so, you may possibly have the food allergen.

  • 4

    Auto Immune Disease

    What is it? Autoimmune disease is a condition that develops when your immune system fights to get rid of the healthy cells in your body. According to PhD,  Sarah Ballantyne every single autoimmune disease that has been researched has shown gluten sensitivity as a contributor to the disease. Kind of scary huh?

  • 5

    Dental Issues

    Having issues with those pearly whites? Well it said that those with undiagnosed gluten sensitivity or Celiac disease can be plagued with cavities, mouth ulcers, broken teeth and even tooth decay. Crazy right? That's why its important to see a doctor if any of the previous symptoms occur.

  • 6

    Sudden Weight loss or Weight Gain

    Going up and down in weight? Sources say that those with gluten sensitivity can experience unwanted weight loss, even with regular calorie intake. On the contrary, Folks with the allergen can trigger systemic inflammation, which can cause the body to mimmic stubborn weight gain. Tough allergy huh? Looks like you cant win or lose, literally.

  • 7

    Skin Irritation

    If you thought the above were bad, then get this. Gluten can cause severe skin issues such as rashes, itchiness, burning, redness and the worst, painful blisters? Why does this happen? Glutenfreeschool.com says that the ingestion of gluten can trigger an immune system response that deposits a substance, IgA (Immunoglobulin A), under the top layer of the skin. Isn't it crazy how much damage one food can do?

  • 8

    Joint and Muscle Pain

    It may be more serious than just your average muscle ache. WebMD says that these pains are common symptoms of gluten sensitivity. Still not alarmed? Folks at The Arthritis Foundation found information in regards to the link between gluten sensitivity, joint pain and arthritis conditions.

  • 9

    Hormone Imbalances

    Feeling unusually hormonal lately? Gluten intolerance can cause imbalances in PMS, PCOS or unexplained infertility. As women we've got enough to worry about, so please get yourself checked out if you've experienced the above.

  • 10

    Changes In Mood

    Feeling like Moody Judy lately? Believe or not, it may be another gluten allergy symptom. Watch out for issues such as anxiety, depression, mood swings and ADD.

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