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Understanding Digestive Health and Gluten Intolerance
With digestive disorders like Gluten Intolerance becoming increasingly more common, it’s important to understand what symptoms to look for and which treatments are available. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye products and many other processed foods. An intolerance to gluten can lead to a range of digestive symptoms, and if left untreated, result in long-term damage to the small intestine.
Symptoms of Gluten Intolerance
Being gluten intolerant can be difficult to diagnose because many of the symptoms are common to other conditions, but they often include digestive complaints, such as abdominal pain, bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, and fatigue. Other symptoms may include skin rashes, headaches, depression, difficulty concentrating, and joint pain.
Diagnosing Gluten Intolerance
If you think you may be gluten intolerant, it is important to speak to your doctor or a qualified dietitian. There are a range of tests available that can confirm a diagnosis. These tests can include a blood test to check for antibodies, or an intragastric reflux test which is done to identify if a small amount of gluten is triggering an immune response.
Treatment Options
The best way to treat gluten intolerance is to follow a gluten-free diet. This means eliminating all wheat, barley, rye, and other foods containing gluten, such as beer, certain types of cereal, and most processed foods. It is important to speak to your doctor or dietitian to make sure you are avoiding any foods that may contain gluten. It’s also important to take a high-potency vitamin and mineral supplement to help ensure you are getting all the nutrients your body needs.
Good Digestive Health
Good digestive health is essential for good overall health and wellbeing. Following a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and watching your alcohol intake are all important components of a healthy digestion. Quitting smoking and cutting down on stress are also important in promoting good digestive health. Taking steps to prevent potential illnesses is important and can help to ensure good digestive health in the long-term.
In conclusion, digestive health is an important part of overall health and wellbeing, and understanding the symptoms of gluten intolerance and knowing which treatment options are available is key to managing your health and avoiding long-term damage.