Gluten is actually a combination of two proteins - glutelin and gliadin. It is commonly found in certain cereal grains, such as wheat and rye. The substance usually provides the viscid property in dough, holding the gas as it rises. Gluten allergy or intolerance, at least with protein gliadin, is called celiac or coeliac disease. It is a condition of the digestive system, in which the small intestine is damaged. It also interferes with the absorption of nutrients obtain from food. Such allergy is most common with women than men, and mostly those European descendants.
Gluten allergy is characterized with skin rashes, eczema, hives and itching. Others may suffer further and develop asthma. There are also possibilities of developing arthritis, if such ailment is not treated sooner. Although celiac disease is associated with gluten allergy, its symptoms are more severe. They often result to arthritis, lung inflammation and even brain dysfunction. One obvious indication is a clay-colored greasy stool. This is more serious than the usual gluten allergic reaction.
When a gluten allergy progress to a celiac condition, its symptoms are often characterized by diarrhea, iron deficiency, weight loss, abdominal pain, bloating and malnutrition. It can also cause failure in the absorption of essential nutrients like vitamin D, K and iron. In this connection, people with celiac disorder have high risk for pharynx, esophagus and small intestine cancer. Also, fibroid lung disease can occur at a higher rate of both conditions.
Like most allergies, gluten allergies and celiac disease have no cure. If you have such case, gluten avoidance and proper treatment are the answers. Gluten-free diet is always recommended by most allergists. It requires a person not to eat food containing oats, barley, wheat and rye. Always avoid meatloaf, gravies, creamed and breaded foods. Take note that if you are allergic to gluten, you may also be sensitive to milk and other dairy products.
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