Have you ever experienced bloating, fatigue, or brain fog and wondered what might be causing it? For some people, gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye—could be the culprit.
Gluten intolerance and coeliac disease can trigger a wide range of symptoms, some of which people don’t always associate with food.
If you’ve been feeling unwell and can’t pinpoint the cause, it might be worth exploring whether gluten is playing a role. Let’s take a closer look at the symptoms and differences between gluten intolerance and coeliac disease.
What is Gluten Intolerance?
Gluten intolerance (also called non-coeliac gluten sensitivity) occurs when someone experiences negative reactions to gluten but does not have coeliac disease or a wheat allergy. While it isn’t an autoimmune condition, it can still cause uncomfortable and disruptive symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Gluten Intolerance:
✔ Digestive Issues – Bloating, stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhoea, or constipation.
✔ Fatigue – Feeling constantly tired, even with enough rest.
✔ Brain Fog – Struggling with memory, concentration, or mental clarity.
✔ Headaches & Migraines – Frequent headaches with no clear cause.
✔ Joint & Muscle Pain – Aches and stiffness without an obvious injury.
✔ Mood Changes – Increased anxiety, depression, or irritability.
✔ Skin Problems – Rashes, eczema, or acne-like breakouts.
These symptoms usually appear after consuming gluten and improve once it’s removed from the diet. However, gluten intolerance is not the same as coeliac disease, which is a more serious condition.
What is Coeliac Disease?
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the body mistakenly attacks the small intestine when gluten is consumed. Over time, this damages the gut lining, leading to malabsorption of nutrients and potential long-term health complications. Unlike gluten intolerance, coeliac disease requires a strict lifelong gluten-free diet to prevent serious health risks.
Common Symptoms of Coeliac Disease:
⚠ Digestive Symptoms – Severe bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, or stomach pain.
⚠ Unexplained Weight Loss – Due to nutrient malabsorption.
⚠ Persistent Fatigue – Feeling drained no matter how much rest you get.
⚠ Anaemia & Nutrient Deficiencies – Low iron, B12, or vitamin D levels.
⚠ Neurological Symptoms – Nerve pain, tingling, or coordination issues.
⚠ Skin Rash (Dermatitis Herpetiformis) – An itchy, blistering rash caused by gluten.
Coeliac disease can affect people differently, and some may have “silent” symptoms, meaning they don’t experience obvious digestive issues but still suffer internal damage. If you suspect coeliac disease, it’s crucial to get tested before going gluten-free to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
What To Do If You Suspect Gluten is an Issue
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consider:
✅ Keeping a Food & Symptom Diary – Tracking what you eat and how you feel can highlight patterns.
✅ Speaking to a Doctor – If coeliac disease is suspected, a blood test and biopsy may be needed for diagnosis.
✅ Getting Proper Guidance – A registered dietitian can help you transition to a gluten-free diet safely.
For those with coeliac disease, even tiny amounts of gluten can cause damage, so strict avoidance is essential. Gluten intolerance, on the other hand, is often managed by reducing or eliminating gluten based on personal tolerance.
Final Thoughts
Many people suffer from gluten-related symptoms without realizing it. Whether it’s gluten intolerance or coeliac disease, identifying the issue can significantly improve your health and well-being. If you think gluten might be affecting you, it’s always best to seek professional advice before making dietary changes.
Have you experienced any of these symptoms? Let us know in the comments! 👇
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