11 Signs You're Actually Gluten Intolerant (Slideshow)
Being gluten-free may be a fad but let's be honest, actual gluten intolerance is anything but glamorous. Gluten intolerance can lead to bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea after eating a big, gluten-filled meal.
Brain Fog
Ever have that feeling that you can't think straight? You aren't sure why but you just can't keep your thoughts in order and you feel spacey? Gluten could be to blame, since gluten-filled foods can cause some serious brain fog in a gluten-intolerance person.
Weird Food Reactions
Sometimes, gluten intolerance is comorbid with other allergies or food intolerances. If you've had weird reactions to food in the past, consider getting tested for gluten intolerance.
Weight Gain
Great, just what everyone wants to hear. But gluten sensitivity can cause you to gain weight unexpectedly over time. Think back and consider your weight loss and gain history. If you've got some weird spots of weight gain, think about mentioning it to your doctor.
Other Autoimmune Disorders
Another symptom of gluten sensitivity is other occurring autoimmune disorders. Hashimoto's, lupus, colitis, or Rheumatoid arthritis could all mean a gluten sensitivity is lurking somewhere below the surface.
Random Swelling
If you've got random swelling and inflammation in your joints — think fingers, knees or hips — check with your doctor, as it could be just one more of the mounting gluten-intolerant symptoms.
Migraines
Migraines are the worst. And it turns out that gluten-related headaches can often mimic migraines or cluster headaches. Pay attention to when you are getting those awful, debilitating headaches. If they are occurring 30 minutes to an hour after eating, it could be that devilish gluten.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a nasty syndrome that affects the muscles and can cause chronic pain, fatigue, and sleep problems. Wouldn't it be great to get a good night's rest again after dealing with fatigue for so long? Talk to your doctor and see if gluten could be the problem.
Mood swings and bad PMS
As if women need one more reason to hate that time of the month. Unfortunately, gluten sensitivity can be the culprit for a raging case of PMS along with irregular menstrual cycles and severe cramps. Hooray for that, said no woman ever.
Unexplained Infertility
Today, couples trying unsuccessfully to conceive are now often being tested for gluten sensitivities. It won't always be the reason for infertility, but sometimes it can be a solution worth looking into.
Keratosis Pilaris
A big word for a small thing, keratosis pilaris is a skin condition that causes bumps and red patches on arms, thighs, cheeks, and sometimes buttocks. If you start noticing weird rashes, keep track. It's important to have a thorough record when you talk to your doctor.