Lots of people complain that they are still sick after following a gluten free diet, there are many factors that contribute to this fact. Here are 5 things you need to know if going gluten free, especially if for medical reasons.
1. GET TESTED FOR CELIAC DISEASE RIGHT AWAY
The goal of testing before or soon after going gluten free is to check levels for TTG and Gliadins in the blood. Once you have gone gluten free for a longer period of time, blood testing for Celiac disease is inconclusive.
If a blood test comes back inconclusive then the next step is a biopsy from the small intestine. It’s important to receive the right diagnosis so you can find the correct remedies. There are many reasons a blood test will come back inconclusive or sometimes return as a false negative, even though Celiac disease is present.
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Dermatitis Herpetiformis is a chronic disease affecting your skin after eating gluten. Symptoms include: redness, itching, blisters, sores, and bumps.
Gluten Ataxia is a neurological disorder caused by an adverse reaction to gluten. Symptoms effect: vision, balance, coordination, motor skills and mental stability.
2. TAKE AN ALLERGY TEST
More times than not, if gluten is a problem, there might be other foods that are bothersome as well, like dairy, soy or eggs. Checking for allergies is essential because you do not want to overlook any possibilities that could make you sick further in the future.
You may think that all you have to do is start eating gluten free and all your health problems will start to dissipate, more times than not that isn’t true. There generally will be several factors creating your health issues, so getting to the root of the problem is essential.
3. TAKE A VITAMIN DEFICIENCY TEST
Have your doctor or a lab (can be less expensive if not insured) run a vitamin deficiency test. If your gut has been compromised then there is a good chance you have not been absorbing vitamins. This can cause a slew of problems such as anemia, headaches, fatigue, irritability, digestive problems, hair loss, depression and a suppressed immune system.
4. DO YOUR RESEARCH
It is important to research about what living a strictly gluten free lifestyle means. There is hidden wheat behind every corner and in items you might assume are gluten free like: candy, lip balm and supplements.
Being glutened after you’ve gone gluten free is ten times worse than before you went gluten free. To minimize this chance know what is in your food and always read labels.
5. UNDERSTANDING CROSS CONTAMINATION
*Little gluten crumbs left in a shared peanut butter jar or a tub of butter can cause you to be glutened. As can a shared toaster, utensils, cutting board and pots n pans.
*Make sure to thoroughly clean shared items, have your own section of gluten free items, and explain to those around you the necessity & importance of keeping your food area gluten free.
*Call ahead to restaurants; know what questions to ask to feel as safe as possible, don’t assume the people handling your food know more about your disease than you do.
*Bring snacks to social outings or parties just in case there is nothing for you to eat. Always be prepared, that is your new motto for living a gluten free lifestyle.
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