80 Best Gluten Free Desserts For The Holidays
It’s no wonder that people will suffer for literally years with gluten sensitivity and go undiagnosed when you consider that there’s something like 250 different signs and symptoms of gluten sensitivity. There are certainly some that I find to be generally more surprising than others. However if you have no choice other than to become your own health detective, a more comprehensive list would be helpful, right?
For the record… Gluten sensitivity is real (check out this article I wrote HERE). I’ve written about those who think it’s all in your head, but I know (as do so many others) that this is a very real condition that modern medicine is still trying to wrap its head around.
If you’re trying to piece together your own health puzzle, here’s a list of 50 signs and symptoms of gluten sensitivity.
Gluten Sensitivity: 50 Signs and Symptoms
1. Gas
2. Bloating
3. Diarrhea
4. Constipation
5. Nausea
6. Vomiting
7. Abdominal Pain or belly distention
8. Acid Reflux
9. Micronutrient (vitamins and mineral) deficiency from poor absorption
10. Keratosis Pilaris
11. Rashes
12. Eczema
13. Acne
14. Psoriasis
15. Dermatitis herpetiformis
16. Rosacea
17. Brain Fog
18. Headaches
19. Migraines
20. Anxiety
21. Depression
22. Mood swings
23. ADD/ADHD
24. Inability to focus
25. Dizziness or trouble balancing
26. Seizures
27. Ataxia
28. Peripheral Neuropathy
29. Infertility
30. Abnormal Menstrual Cycles
31. PCOS
32. PMS
33. Hot flashes
34. Fatigue
35. Feeling tired after eating a meal that contains gluten (aka. “Food Coma”)
36. Fibromyalgia
37. Inflammation
38. Join pain and swelling
39. Exacerbation of autoimmune disease symptoms
40. Low immunity
41. Osteoporosis / Osteomalacia / Low Bone Density
42. Dental Caries
43. Canker sores
44. Broken teeth
45. Tooth decays
46. Depressed secretory IgA
47. Weight Loss
48. Weight Gain
49. Poor sleep
50. Night blindness
Be aware that this list is in no particular order and that having any of these signs does not necessarily mean that you are indeed gluten sensitive.
Sometimes you can react to other food proteins and think that you’re getting glutened even though there’s no gluten in your meal. Or you might discover that gluten is still hiding in spots (you’d never think of) in your kitchen and making its way into your mouth.
Think you have gluten sensitivity? Here’s what to do next…
There are quite a few people out there (online) who would tell you that you should just go gluten-free and never look back if you find that gluten does indeed cause a problem. I don’t quite agree with that sentiment and I’d say that this point is one of my biggest regrets looking back regarding my gluten-free journey.
Because some estimates (like this one from The University of Chicago Celiac Center) states that up to 83% of those with celiac disease are still undiagnosed and that it can take an average of 4 years to finally get a diagnosis, I do recommend if you find that you react to gluten to go get tested for celiac disease. The reason is that celiac can be a serious, life-altering autoimmune disease that further increases your risk of developing additional autoimmune diseases (such as Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and Sjogren’s) and even cancer.
By not getting tested and assuming that what you have is gluten sensitivity may not be accurate. This essentially clouds your ability to know exactly what’s going on with your body (the root cause, right?) and what risk factors may be down the road that you should be aware of. Maybe you can stave them off, maybe not. Either way, having that knowledge and knowing if your issues stem from your body stumbling into a state of autoimmunity (where your body essentially attacks itself because it thinks that certain tissue is actually a foreign invader) is critical.
And one more thing… Compliance with the diet is a major problem for people in our community who need to be gluten free.
I’ve found from my experience coaching clients to become fully compliant within a very short period of time that when someone goes gluten free on their own, it generally takes at least 2 years to get comfortable with the diet.
Unfortunately many are still struggling even longer (I’ve had a few who still were unable to figure it all out 10 years after being told they needed to fully remove gluten). That’s an awfully long time to 1) continue to feel like dirt and 2) not give your body a break.
Though having a celiac diagnosis is no surefire way to guarantee that you won’t cheat, for some people, having that diagnosis does help. And if you can’t do it yourself or you’re just fed up and tired of feeling awful because you can’t seem to “stay on the wagon,” don’t be afraid or unwilling to ask for help. It can make all the difference to end the struggle and frustration so that you can feel better sooner and have the confidence and know-how to make living gluten free feel easier than ever.
NEED MORE HELP?
If you feel like you’re at your wits’ end and fed up knowing what to eat…
Or you feel like food is your enemy now that you’ve gone gluten-free because you don’t know what’s safe…
And you’re feeling deeply overwhelmed with the process of ridding your life of gluten…
I have a really neat opportunity for you so keep on reading!
I’m hosting a special webinar (that’s totally free) where I’m going to talk about the process how to simplify going gluten-free as well as how I (and my clients) have gotten to a place where the lifestyle and diet are a piece of gluten-free cake.
If you’ve been GF for less than 2 years, are still struggling to “stay on the wagon,” or haven’t even started going GF yet… this is for you.
Today and tomorrow, I’m hosting an exclusive webinar called…
There’s no cost to attend and I’m going to cover some of the biggest questions you have!
Think of it like you and I sit down for a cup of tea (or coffee)… let’s talk. Plus I’ll have a special surprise for you at the end! BUT please be aware that I will not record this event so if you miss it, then you’ve missed out.
Now’s your turn…
Leave a comment below sharing your gluten sensitivity symptom combo!
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Other gluten related symptoms I had included:
Anemia even taking iron twice a day
Vitamin D deficiency even taking 50,000 units per week
Alopecia or my hair was falling out
Autoimmune disease. I have scleroderma with pulmonary hypertension.
Constipation
There were others that are listed like osteopenia, my left jaw bone eroded away to where surgery was required. Right was also bad but after 16 months of gluten and dairy free I developed new bone growth on the right and never had to have surgery. Oral surgeon thought it was a miracle.
Other symptoms of celiac?
heart arrhythmia (afib and more) caused by the rampant inflammation of the body
hair loss
Lately I have found that when I suspect that I did get glutened, that I get a headache, lethargy, irritability and depression for the next day or two. I get through the first day with irritability then have a day where I don’t want to be around people and don’t want to talk to anyone. This is different for me as in the past my symptoms have manifested in GI issues. For a while I have been suspecting that different forms of gluten (ex. marinades, soy sauce vs. bread crumb or things like that) might contribute to different symptoms that I get.
My biggest symptom was the feeling like a truck ran over me, my endocrinologist thought that it was due to the Hashimotos but even with low TPO antibodies and low in range TSH, etc… still had that terrible feeling until I got the gluten out of my system.
The most annoying symptoms I dealt with was itchy scalp and red “pimples” on my hands and arms.
I have a lot of the same symptoms as you!
– fatigue
– anxiety
– depression
– fatigue
– eczema
– psoriasis
– brain fog
– abnormal menstrual cycles
– joint and muscle pain
– sleep irregularity
I have been trying to get diagnosed for a few years. I swore I had Hashimoto’s, but my test all came back in normal ranges. I think I might finally have found a way to improve my symptoms!
Insomnia where I can see the whole room with my eyes shut.
Insomnia dependent on when I ate the gluten. Host at communion in the morning would not let me fall asleep that night. Yogurt with natural flavoring”s” at lunch would wake me up a couple of hours after falling asleep. And evening meal of gluten would have me up for 2-2 1/2 hours at 2am. Never was tired the next day!!!
Make sure you request gluten free host crackers! If Jesus were here, I’m sure he would too!
I was diagnosed about 3 months ago with Celiac’s at the age of 62. I guess I had a sensitivity most of my life without realizing it but it got totally out of control with the diarrhea and the lack of energy in the last couple of years as well as weight gain after giving birth to my son twenty years ago. (I have always been physically active and couldn’t keep weight off after losing it) One of the first things I learned when I went to the dietitian classes, was that it can cause miscarriages. I wish I was aware of that 18 years ago when even though I had no problem conceiving, I would miscarry in the first trimester. Fortunately I have one son but 12 waiting for me in heaven.
Other symptoms that I have experienced when glutened was tight muscles, especially in my neck (Chiro verified). If my neck starts tightening up I know I’ve been glutened. Back when I did eat gluten I had problems with dandruff and sinus infections, both of which ceased once gluten was removed. Hope this helps! Prayers for Jennifer’s mom!! God bless!
Jen, my symptoms included fibromyalgia, gut pain, diarrhea, headaches and general malaise. I started getting chest pain and was admitted to the hospital. My cardiologist is the one who diagnosed gluten sensitivity and upon going gluten free within a week the fibromyalgia pain was completely gone. I’m sure there were other symptoms that could be attributed to gluten but the above were most prominent.
I have chest pain but every time I gi o to the doctor they tell me my hearts fine, so I think I’ve developed an intolerance to gluten. I get dizzy, chest pains, gas, bloating, irritability, bad acne, abdominal pain, side pain, back pain, find it really hard to sleep, brain fog, headaches, pounding heart and clumsiness.
I don’t have anything to add to the list, but I agree strongly with Jennifer that if you are still eating gluten, or even “cheating” , get tested for celiac first before going completely gluten free. I am curious, though, why people are having trouble with being gluten free. I have been doing it since 1977, when there were virtually NO gluten free commercially available foods on the market. It meant I had to cook from scratch, and I still do. I don’t always like the time it takes (and I’m not much of a baker either) but I do like being healthy! But up until 4-5 years ago, there was still gluten sneaking into my food. I didn’t want to believe I was really “that sensitive.” I ate commercial Chinese food with soy sauce made with wheat, for example. It wasn’t until I got serious about being 100% gluten free that skin rashes that I would get 3-4 times/year completely stopped. I also turned around a thyroid issue I had in 2011 without medication (not Hashimotos) and got my energy back. (With herbs and some other changes as well, like stopping fluoridated water). Although I will never know now if I’m celiac or not, I have started to say “I am 100% gluten free for medical reasons” so hopefully people get that it is not a “lifestyle choice” or fad for me.
Thank you for this list. I experienced at least 36 of the 50 symptoms here. One other thing I struggled with before finally figuring out in 2011 that gluten was a problem for me, was asthma-like symptoms, especially at night when I tried to sleep. I often felt like I could barely breath, even while sitting up in bed. I don’t know whether this was gluten-related, but I know that the problem stopped when I cut out gluten. I also had night sweats and sometimes chills.
I have been gluten, wheat-free, for 2 months. I was experiencing abdominal pain, bloating and have diagnoses of fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel, hypothyroidism, adrenal fatigue. I went gluten free for a month and then ARNP wanted a celiac test, so I ate wheat products for 2 weeks and was tested and did not have celiac disease, but I wanted to return to gluten-free, despite the inconveniences socially. I am not sure if I have ever known true “health”, but one very interesting aspect of starting to feel “healthy” is that I have longer sustainable energy, (I’m 63) and for probably first time in my life, I have sexual desire. Go figure. I wish your mother well: my 88 year old mother had open heart surgery for stenosis aorta value in November and she is doing well now, physically. Cherish your time with you mom.
I have been tested several times for celiac disease, even undergoing endoscopy with many tissue samples taken and have come back with a negative diagnosis. In addition to GI gas and bloating, keratosis pilaris, vitamin D deficiency, hot flashes, fatigue, muscle weakness, a lot of hip pain (the list goes on and on), foods with gluten have caused me much joint and muscle pain, including the feeling of “heavy” muscles that make movement hard. When laying down in bed at night, I would even have the feeling that the bottom 1/3 to 1/2 of the area touching the bed was being “crushed” by the weight of the rest of my body that was above it. The hip pain would make it difficult to sleep on my sides and the “crushing weight” feeling has been horrible!
I have most of these symptoms, I also have lowthyroid hashimotosis-also a autoimmune disease. From what I was told is to stay away from gluten. Everything has gluten in it. So frustrating to change my diet. Anyhow, having a low thyroid and hashimoto is curable. I’ve seen a friend who had it. After changing what he ate, he came back with normal results. Doctors will not tell you this. It is hard to do.
When I ingest gluten within 30 minutes to 6 hours later the following happens. 1.) Different parts of my face tend to swell, under the eyes, lips, cheeks, may or may not have hives. 2.) Everywhere on my body has hives that itch like no tomorrow. 3.) I may or may not have diarrhea, gas or bloating. Sometimes all the above happens.
From your list:
1, 2, 3, 4, 13, 17, 20, 21, 22, 34, 35, 42, 43
I also had trembling in my hands. I had an MRI of my head to check for abnormalities in my brain, but nothing. When I stopped eating gluten it eventually went away. I spent most of my life thinking I could never do something like be a surgeon because my hands would shake.
I Also had…
Asthma
Edema
Muscle spasms
Profuse Sweating!!
Urinary incontinence
Always hungry/never full, or not for long anyway
all disappeared within a week of getting off gluten!
You couldn’t pay me to eat gluten!!
I am a Medical Laboratory Scientist, I do the lab testing for Celiac.
I have been tested extensively for Celiac.
ALL of my testing has been negative, yet I had severe symptoms that no one could figure out.
Thanks for compiling this list!
I hope it helps others figure out what is wrong with them.
Wow, some of those symptoms listed were unexpected and I will have to do some extra research and thinking about them… That said hubby is gluten sensitive, doctors said nothing is wrong. He gets frequent diarrhea, severe gas and bloating, bleeding, pain, fast heartbeat, chiro issues get aggravated, insomnia. After he developed symptoms he has also had serious tooth and sinus issues develop. Our family has gone GF and he is better… It has been over a year, and tho’ I wasn’t gluten sensitive then, now if I eat something with gluten, I develop similar symptoms plus fibromyalgia. Think everyone is gluten sensitive to some degree … or reacting to wheat toxicity…But just not aware.
Alopecia is not on your list yet. Thanks for all you do!
I appreciate all the information you are giving us. I went to my Dr. last summer who referred me to a gastroanterologist and they did some blood work and said that I did not have celiac. However, when I was there I did not feel like the Dr. I was talking to took me seriously. So I have done nothing since then. Listening to this makes me think that I should go back to my primary dr. and persue this further.
Hi Judy, I definitely would continue to pursue this. If you’re having issues, it’s best not to just let them be and ignore them. The longer things are let go, the longer and more challenging it can be to correct things. If you didn’t like the gastro you were referred to, request a different name. Does your primary agree with you that there is a potential issue?
I think you listed all mine such as Joint pain, extreme itching in the shins of legs. Stomach swelling, excessive gas and bloating. Tenderness to the touch of stomach did not like any weight on my tummy. Depression. Tiredness. Thank you for all your research and knowledge
My symptoms are
Fatigue (like I am superman and someone just dropped kryptonite in my lap)
Muscle aches in my back (felt sore to receive hugs)
Brain fog/inability to focus
I have/had many of the typical gluten symptoms listed. One I didn’t associate with gluten sensitivity is dizziness. I’ve had vertigo and bad balance for 5-7 years. All about the time I became very ill with hashis.
BEFORE I WENT 100% GF: I experienced #s 1-gas, 3-diarrhea, 7- abdominal pain, 9- low iron (found when I tried to donate blood and was turned away due to low iron. Wondered how that could be as I was eating red meat & green vegies regularly. Through my own research I determined it was a malabsorption issue), 35-fatigue & food coma after eating. My ADDITIONAL SYMPTOMS NOT ON YOUR LIST included -LOWER BACK PAIN (15 years saw a chiro for continual lower back pain, and was not until I went 100% GF that pain went away , except for pre-menstrual); – NOISY INTESTINES (I add this one here, because simply listing “abdominal pain” doesn’t cover it! Someone can suffer abdominal pain and nobody notices. But when one’s intestines gurgle, squeal, bubble, splash…..and everyone in the room can hear…..well that’s when I really knew something was up with my belly and I had to figure out what was causing it!) Currently I’ve been GF “pure” for 12 years. And when I have the slightest exposure NOW to gluten (including oats and gluten free oats) I’ll get abdominal pain & food coma. But I have another symptom that’s weird so I list it here in case others experience it. I get a popping sensation in my calves & thighs. It’s less than a spasm. A single POP. If you thump your leg with your forefinger, that’s what it feels like. Kinda like popcorn popping in my legs. I’ll feel a POP every 10 minutes or so, for about 2 days. Weird, I know. But that’s when I can tell my DH “I’ve been glutened!!”
Hi Jen, this is very comprehensive list! In addition to many of these symptoms , I experienced the following prior to going gluten free:
-heart palpitations
-panic attacks
-hypoglycemia
-insomnia
-memory issues
-tinnitus
-overactive bladder
-chest pain
-fibromyalgia
-flushing
-weakness
-dizziness
-fibrocystic breasts
-difficulty taking deep breaths
-difficulty reading
Thanks so much Jen!
I suffered from the following symptoms from the age of 19-40 , never thinking that gluten could be the culprit
1,2,3,7,12.
I got the heavy food coma (35) if I made a small mistake, after I initially cut out Gluten (during the first couple of weeks). Now if I make a mistake, I have an upset stomach for about a week afterwards but no coma.
In addition, rather than acne, I had these ‘under the skin spots’ on my face, like mini volcanoes that didnt erupt but were very painful to touch. I no longer get these since going GF. My eczema is also slightly improved but not as much as I had hoped (stress seems to be the major factor!)
thanks for compiling this list!
OH MY GOODNESS! All of the above! 4 yrs now. Blood tests proved Celiac, Gastroenterologist WOULD NOT give official dx, even though the report, clearly, alluded to Celiac. His poor “over the boundries” approach was nothing short of un-professional, stating “maybe there’s something going on at home”. UM, excuse me! My husband was right there in the office with me, as sincere & concerned and angered as I was. We left, wondering, “What do we do next?” Started taking matters into my own hands by educating myself through various sites & starting a medical relationship w/ a Chiropractor/Naturopath. Also dx w/ Hashimoto’s. That being said, have acquired sensitivity to corn, soy, MSG. Corn protein, very closely, resembles wheat protein & can cause the same reaction & it’s own. Currently, still having issues regulating balance between Hashimoto’s & Adrenal Function. It’s all trial & error, baby steps, one “try” at a time so you can be sure of what is helping, what is not and what is causing reactions. It’s a constant, long & exhausting journey that none of us would have hoped for, however, even if I were to be totally “healed” I would NEVER return to the Gluten dominated/processed foods diet/lifestyle. Wishing all of you, on this journey, HEALING, God Speed & Blessings
Thank you Dawn and all you other women who have suffered through your allergies and auto-immune diseases. You will be helping many, by posting your most interesting experiences.
Thank you Jennifer for posting the symptom list. I feel there is hope yet with your caring and other people taking the time to post their problems. God Bless you all.
Hi Jennifer,
My name is Susan and I was on your webinar last evening but on my iPhone I couldn’t get the chat box. I truly loved everything you had to say. I truly appreciate all of your research and simplifying GF for us. I tried to go to the website to sign up for one of your courses to get rolling and it did not come up. It brought me here. Can you please help me get to the proper sight?
Hi Susan… yep! Sent you an email a bit ago 🙂
The correct address for the program is http://www.kickglutenforgood.com.
Many of the top 50 symptoms I’ve had to deal with gas, bloating, constipation, brain fog, fatigue, weight gain, cold sores, vitamin d def but a few that weren’t up there were asthma, night sweats and insomnia. I went from being a high dependant on steroid inhalers and ventolin daily for my asthma to now using a ventolin 2 or 3 times a year usually during winter and having a cold. Something else I’m not sure if it is related but I have a low amunity to rubella. I’ve had the vaccination 3 times and I’ve had a mild case of German measles and still I do not have the desired protection level.
What is your thought on the use of sprouted einkorn wheat?
Ruth, Sprouted Einkorn wheat isn’t gluten-free. No one is debating that. So if you have celiac or are gluten sensitive, then you have to avoid it. Sprouting it doesn’t eliminate gluten. Any products make with sprouted einkorn are not GF.
Hi, I’ve been reading your articles. I’ve had trouble with being underweight due to anxiety, and when I eat it feels like a challenge, especially in social settings at fast food places, restaurants, and donut shops (would always throw up donuts regardless). I told my boyfriend I wanted to try to go vegan because I never have a problem consuming fruits, veggies, and nuts no matter how nervous I feel. He told me I may have “acute gluten sensitivity”. Have you heard if that? If it’s like an accute injury that probably couldn’t exist for food? I have also been taking apetamin to increase appetite and gain weight, and it seems to override those subconscious reservations about certain foods, although I won’t necessarily feel stellar after consuming them. I don’t even more than a handful of the 50 symptoms, none severe and not even any problems with my skin or teeth, BUT the ones I do have I am VERY concerned about: abnormal period, anxiety/social phobia and BRAIN FOG and occassional dizziness. So I am going to start from the brain fog symptom and research what it may match up to. I believe my relationship to food is psychosomatic, except for the donut thing? I am in the dark but thank you for taking the time to provide accurate help.
Miranda, I’ve not hear the phrase “acute gluten sensitivity”, but it’s possible that you are gluten sensitive. A donut is kind of like a gluten bomb! It really depends on what you feel is the best option for you, but you may want to try taking gluten out for a couple of weeks and see how you feel.
I’m a thyroid cancer and Hashimoto’s survivor, but not one doctor has ever mentioned gluten sensitivity to me!!! I don’t know where to start to become gluten free….
Hi Anji! Sounds like you’re in the right place! I’d recommend checking out this article as a good place to start –> https://www.jenniferfugo.com/2015/09/01/going-gluten-free/. If you feel that you need more help, please reach out as I do work privately with clients to jumpstart the process and get them going 🙂
I went off gluten 4 years ago as a last ditch effort to overcome about 40 these listed symptoms. I was not about to go back to eating gluten just to be tested. I have not cheated in the four years since and I’ve only been accidentally glued and twice. I will never go back to the pain and suffering that eating gluten caused me I will never eat gluten again although I miss it very much .
Gluten sensitivity caused my fibro, RA, migraines, restless leg, narcolepsy, acid reflux/Gerd and a host of other conditions. Since removing gluten and wheat 4 years ago, I am off all meds and my symptoms remain controlled by diet. Thank you for educating the public. The medical community is in great denial or it is a conspiracy to keep making money!
I suffered eczema,food Intolerences (Histimine and salicylates,rashes ,migraines,gas and then discovered leaky gut which was not helped by ingesting gluten.Now I have thyroid anti bodies so it is imperative to illuminate harmful glutin
I have 18 of the problems on the list and right now feel very overwhelmed.
I’m in a lot of pain and discomfort especially in my abdomen ,lots of gas,and I upper back
Hi Sandra, I’m so sorry to hear that you’re having so many issues. I’ve been there and struggled for years without having any clear answers. The question that you need to ask yourself at this point is if you’re open to getting more support and help. As a clinical nutritionist, I have many tools at my disposal to help someone like yourself. If you’re interested in exploring a relationship working together to get you beyond the overwhelm and moving towards a resolution of your symptoms, let me know. You can click on the “Work With Me” link in the Navigation bar and set up time to chat privately.
I’ve had abdominal pain, bloating, extreme fatigue, muscle aches, joint pain, dizziness , brain fog, and headaches. After eating pasta two days in a row, on Firday I was really sick. I knew something was wrong. I highly suspected it was my diet. I had never looked into gluten sensitivity before last week.
So I started reading lots of articles. After eating eggs afew days later I had the same symptoms. I’m now doing an elimination diet. No gluten, eggs, soy, dairy, sugar, peanuts or artificial sweetener.
It’s overwhelming to say the least. Just trying to figure out a few days of meals to get started.
I will say, my joints feel better for sure even though I’ve only been at this a few days. One meal at a time! Thanks for all the info ?
I hve many symptoms, |Diahrea, heart burn, joint pain, edema, poor sleeping patterns, weight gain, depression, anxiety. hot flashes, exhaustion etc, etc, etc.
I had all sort of skin problems,rashes,eczema,acne,dermatitis, then annoying headaches, anxiety and mood swings,terrible pms,fatigue,joint swellings,low immunity, dental problems,canker sores and night blindness.skin problems are actually the ones that i somehow connected to gluten sensitivity, few days gf and my burning itchy skin with patches of rash already feels calmer!acnes on my face seem better too!hope that with time the other symptoms will disappear too,let’s give it some more time 🙂
Hi Jennifer, I have 23 of the symptoms you listed above. They have lessened since I eliminated gluten from my diet but they have not gone away. I have been gf for about 5 years now and I do not cheat. Of course I accidentally come into contact with it occasionally.
I was having severe problems. Had testing done but the blood test results were lost, after the doctor said I did not have celiac. When my husband asked the doctor if I had a sensitivity he said he could not tell. So…my husband and I researched gluten sensitivity and I went on a gluten free diet. It has been hard but most of my symptoms have disappeared. From your list I had at least 25 symptoms. It has not been easy. Finding restaurants that serve gluten free food in a rural area can be almost impossible. People look at u like u are crazy if u ask for gluten free choices. I had one waitress tell me to just order a sandwich with out bread. Anyway, after having gone gluten free most of my symptoms are improved and/or no longer existent. It has been and is a constant struggle.
Have about probably 40 of these. Some going by symptoms described of conditions. I was diagnosed 2 years ago after going more than 6 months with constant extreme diarrhea and extreme weight loss. I had been seeing my primary doctor about the diarrhea and she did some tests but she couldn’t find anything and then she sent me to a surgeon who did test on my gallbladder and found I had some trouble with it so surgeon removed gallbladder. However I still was having all the diarrhea. On a recheck with him it was his nurse assistant that suggested checking for Celiac. That test showed I had it and then another doctor, my diabetes doctor sent me to a gastro specialist and he also confirmed it. I still am working on trying to find things with gluten. Don’t know if it is in an ingredient that has ingredients to it and it not labeled on warnings, or if it is of the products that say gluten free but under the 20 ppm, or if is in products I use on my body and the laundry stuff. I don’t have much diarrhea anymore and some of the symptoms only at times. Haven’t been able to have other tests done or seeing of specialists because have not been able to work and no insurance. I also have Diabetes Type 1 (for 44 years) and other problems related to the diabetes, and Diverticulosis. But still doing what can with my health, and at least I don’t have diarrhea 5-10 times a day and my bones don’t show like they had couple years ago.
Good Afternoon. I was 52 when my entire body become enveloped in what doctors thought was psoriasis, eczema, or just a simple contact dermatitis. My hands, feet, and t he backs of my thighs were the most predominately inflamed. It is 8 years later, I have been patch tested, scratch tested, handed one ointment after another, was on Humira for 6 months, then Enbrel for another 6 months, to no avail. My arms are so scarred now I am embarrassed to be seen outside my home. My hands, arms, torso, knees, and tops and bottoms of feet are now so inflamed that it takes a strong, long taper of Prednisone to calm it. I am completely debilated because I cant pull a zipper, turn a door knob, or hold a steering wheel it has gotten so bad, and walking anywhere even to the bathroom causes tears. I have tried everything except going gluten free, since no doc has been able to tell me what this rash is. If going gluten free after 30 days has not improved my life and my skin, I am going to end up in a psyche ward because of the pain and depression I am feeling. I would rather die that continue like this. I do not have any indications of intestinal problems such as diarreah or constipation, intestinal gas, or abdominal pain, but my stomach IS distended. I have tried liver cleanses, and other types of cleanses, to no avail. No gluten allergy presented itself on the patch testing, so I am at my wits end. I need my hands back. I live alone and have no one to help me clean, do dishes, or even to help me button my jacket. Otherwise I am very very healthy, no pain, no arthritis, just this excruciatingly bloody and cracked and inflamed skin all over me. If anyone out there can help me, I would sure appreciate it.
Judy from Newburyport
Judy, so sorry for all of your pain and suffering! Your diet is huge in how your body feels. Gluten is a big problem but so are so many other toxins from our food and environment. Be sure to eat organic, non-gmo foods. Look also at any body lotions, shampoo,conditioner, deodorant, laundry soap, toothpaste with fluoride. Get rid of products with ingredients you can not pronounce. Chemicals are making us so sick!. Do not heat your food in plastic in a microwave. Toxins can be released into your food. Look on the internet for a functional doctor or practitioner in your area. There is a ton of information on the internet to help you. DO NOT GIVE UP HOPE ! YOU ABSOLUTELY can get better!!!
I can so relate I have been dealing with a rash that they cannot find out what it is for three months now The allergist thinks it is dermatitis herpetiformis. It is in the palm of my hands the back of my thighs arms and all down my back. I have been gluten-free pretty much now for four weeks. I am also looking into my harmone injection having gluten in it. Relief is well needed. I just don’t want it to get worse. And want to find answers so trying every thing I can. Hope you feel better soon.
I was diagnosed at the age of 18 with IBS and reflux. I am now 43 years old. The last 5years I have had, diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain and migraines all the time. I have other symptoms too but I didn’t know it was from gluten. I finally got tested and I was allergic to gluten.
I was just diagnosed with Celiac disease this week. When I look back at other medical issues I have had, many of them are connected. I’ve had Hashimotos and got me thyroid gland removed years ago. I’ve had acid reflux for over 5 years now. Gonna try to go gluten free as quickly as possible.
Hello. I am 70 years old and in good general health. I don’t take any drugs but I take many supplements. Regarding gluten I was never tested for it but I believe it caused me diverticulitis. Many years ago I was told I have real bad diverticulitis and to resolve the problem I had a colon surgery where the surgeon removed my sigmoid (Part of the colon).
My doctor or surgeon never said it is the gluten that caused my problem. Anyway I don’t have any issues.
Thanks for all the information
I have 24 of the 50 listed.
Once I went dairy-free as well as gluten-free, my inflammation disappeared , I lost the 25 pounds I’d been trying to lose for years. My muscle aches and discomfort disappeared. I do have arthritis but now no pain and I even have seen many fingers all free of bone bumps. And I feel good. I still have other food allergies that I must stay away from, but once the inflammation was gone, I started to get rid of many other allergic reactions.
I already have Hashimotos, as well as reflux disease, osteoarthritis and sjorgens. It wasn’t until last spring when a friend forwarded me the Hashimotos Summit that I learned I should have been on a gluten free diet. I went seven years feeling like dirt, always tired, overweight, and struggling to stay active (along with bouts of constipation, sleep issues, hot flashes from menopause, bloating and stomach distension. I started removing gluten right away, and am doing pretty good adhering to it. I am ready to tackle my beauty products (make-up, shampoo, etc.) now. I find your messages so helpful and encouraging. Thank you.
My symptoms to make me feel like I have a sensitivity possibly to gluten is I’ve been having a rash that itches for three months. And also becoming menopausal carbs for gluten seem to make me swell and bloat or gain weight very easily. Those are the main symptoms that I have and I went to an allergist Who did bloodwork and said I was not allergic to gluten or had Celiac disease but she things that I have dermatitis herpetiformis which they say can’t be detected by a blood test. So I have been battling with this for a while not knowing if it is truly gluten or not. Wish I could find some definite answers to my problems feeling very frustrated. Of course there are symptoms of anxiety depression and mood swings’s and also fatigue but hard to know if that’s not just the menopause.
gas, bloating, rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroid, PAIN, exacerbates RA, constipation, weight gain,
I have at least 25 of the symptoms on the list. I was told by my doctor that I have a gluten sensitivity. I was also diagnosed with gastritis and acid reflux. I am clueless as to what foods I can eat.
Hi Pamela, there are plenty of things you CAN eat that are naturally gluten-free. You can take a look at my recipe index here on the site. If you feel really torn about it, please consider getting some support/help to resolve the confusion and get moving. I’ve certainly worked with many clients in your shoes. Often they just need some direction as to what would be best for you.
I recently came to the realization that I may have a gluten allergy or intolerance. I haven’t gone for blood work yet but will in the coming week. In looking at this list and others similar to this there are several things I have been experiencing which leads me to think I need to be gluten free. There are about 10 absolute signs, 4-5 maybe signs. I am looking forward to getting the results back so that I know for sure.
Hello Jennifer, I don’t know if I have gluten sensitivity or not. I am being treated for cellulitis by my GP because I have a rash on my leg that started out as a mild itch and about the size of a 50 pence piece, but is now almost covering the lower part of my left leg. I was given 2 types of anti biotics to take 4 times a day for 10 days. During this time, the rash spread rather than receded. My leg and foot were really swollen, red, itchy and painful. My leg felt like the skin could burst open it was so stretched. My son told me he had read somewhere about glucose intolerance and that I had many of the symptoms. I went back to my GP after I had finished the course of anti biotics and I asked him if I might have a sensitivity or intolerance to gluten and told him what my son had read about it. He told me to make an appointment with the practice nurse for blood tests to check for gluten sensitivity but meanwhile he gave me another prescription for a different anti biotics which I have been taking for 4 days now. I can’t say there is much improvement and the itchiness is driving me crazy. I have been to the pharmacy and bought a bottle of calamine lotion, which I have dabbed on all over the rash. It has helped the itchiness but the rash hasn’t improved. At least it hasn’t spread any further. So I am waiting for results of blood tests, then I have to go back to my GP. I phoned him yesterday to ask if it could be serious because it wasn’t showing any sign of improvement yet. He told me that cellulitis can be serious but I am not presenting with any other symptoms. He asked me to continue with the medication and if there was no improvement by Monday, I should call him and he will arrange an appointment to see me that day. So, as it is, I don’t know if I have a problem with gluten or not. I can message you again when I get the results.
Kind regards,
June
I had gas gradually worsening diarrhoea stomach bloating burning swollen hands, rashes on my arms and very itchy scalp with reoccurring pimples which I did not associate with gluten intolerance until I saw it mentioned in this blog. Have just realised after just 2 wks of starting gluten free my scalp no longer itches and no pimples along with no gas and diarrhoea etc. I actually went to my GP with the suspicion that I was lactose intolerant. It turns out I am both. Early days for me still learning but lucky to have a suportive doctor and there seems to be lots of gluten and lactose free products in our supermarket. I am going to start making my own bread. Good luck everybody
Regards Helen
Diagnosed with Hashimotos in 2010. Even though a food sensitivity test showed no sensitivities, my daughter (a clinical nutritional counselor) and my doctor recommended to stop the gluten. I will be 2 years GF in 2 months. Still dealing with the fatigue that comes with hypothyroidism, but I will persevere.
Last summer my 14 year old began having problems. She had no energy, terrible joint pains, all kinds of bowel issues, constant eczema. I took her to the allergist, and she scratch tested as allergic to almost everything. Trees, grass, mold, animals (which she got shots for) soy, tree nuts, and many fruits and vegetables. We called her a carb-aholic because she craved it and it was basically all she could eat because of all her allergies. She then began to suffer from severe depression and anxiety issues, they said she also has clinically serious ADHD. Her general practitioner did all all kinds of blood work on her. Not much showed up except zero level of Vitamin D, and extremely elevated RA factors. (Celiac was negative.) We have spent thousands of dollars on counseling, tried 3 different medications for RA without much relief. Thousands on testing, and treatments. Our second opinion Rhumetologist just told us she doesn’t have RA. Blood work still shows positive for RA factor when re-tested, but she didn’t see any evidence in X-rays or MRI!?!?!
I am so frustrated! She suffers almost every symptom on the list above, and we are working with a local nutritionist that suggested she may have “gut issues.” I had a friend that tells me her celiac tests were both negative but when they scoped her and actually checked her scillia she was VERY intolerant to gluten. SO, starting this week we are going to go gluten free, and see if it makes any difference. I pray that she has the same miraculous healing as many of the commenters on here as I am at my wit’s end! WISH US LUCK!!
Hello there, I was diagnosed December 2015 with subclinical hypothyroidism, goiter and high TPO antibodies. I went GF almost immediately and also saw a nutritionist here (I live in London). I am taking iodine following an Iodine loading test to establish what would be needed. I keep my selenium and B12 levels up amongst other supplements. Also halfway through mercury filling removal by a biological dentist.
My antibodies have been ‘negative’ since August 2017 and I have gradually lost 14 pounds which is a bonus. I am fortunate in that my NHS General Practitioner has agreed to monitor my blood for thyroid antibodies every 6 months. I am still subclinical and feel well.
The last 2 endocrinologists I saw were just not interested in checking antibodies which is such a missed opportunity to prevent further damage to the thyroid. I tested negative in the celiac test run at the outset but many more autoimmune diseases are helped by going GF. I intend to remain GF for life and I have not found it hard to go GF in London but outside the capital it is much more difficult. I haven’t travelled overseas yet but will be going to Australia so I am always looking for tips for quick and easy GF meals and any help re food on the move.
My mom has either celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
I have numerous symptoms that you listed,along with neuropathy. I’ve been on a autoimmune-Paleo diet for almost three weeks and don’t see much improvement. I live in a rural area and can’t find any place to get tested for antibodies in my blood.But had Celiac test which was negative. I’m not sure at this point where to turn.
Hi Vickey! I work with clients all over the US and Canada via phone and Skype. Have you considered setting up time to talk? You can do so here: https://www.jenniferfugo.com/strategy-session/
When I ingest gluten or maybe its wheat I dont get symptoms immediately it may not be until the next day. I get a bloated feeling which can sometimes affect my balance…constipation is always a problem..I never get diahhorea. I get a stiffness in the joints that I can recall describing to Drs 30 yrs ago & never got an explanation for….I have only in the past few years become aware of what was suspected of causing a range of unpleasant symptoms…I get aches & pains to which I liken to an arthritic symptom & inflammation which disappears if I stay away from gluten or wheat Im not sure which…I have been blood tested for Cealiac which has been negative…I really would like to get on top of these most unpleasant symptoms & can be done if I eliminate gluten & wheat but it is not always easy & is hard to stick with gluten free.
Hi Sue, it’s entirely possible that there are other issues in the gut at play here. You should check out the experiences of some of my clients. I think you’d find it very eye-opening — https://www.jenniferfugo.com/about/testimonials/
I have at least 20 of your list of 50. I have been tested for celiac by intestinal biopsy and was negative. Please remind people reading that if they want to be tested for celiac especially by blood test, they need to do it before they go gluten free, or they will get a false negative since you need to be eating gluten to have circulating antibodies in order for the test to be positive.
I’m sorry, Mary for the mixup with the webinar. That was from a year ago. I will be holding something in September so stay tuned!
Hi Jennifer – glad I found you as you have given me more information than I’ve been able to find anywhere else! I am in my early 70’s and have been struggling with celiac-like symptoms (most of which are listed above) and have been tested for many times all of which came back as negative for gluten issues. However, the diarrhea and acid reflux had become so persistent that I was literally housebound. I recently chose to ignore tests results and go completely gluten free and the results have been phenomenal! I can see why its difficult to switch from regular eating to gluten free – its a whole different taste to food and takes some adjustment but the end results are well worth staying with gluten free. I wish you could see my fingernails! I have struggled with broken brittle nails that would split lengthwise down the nail in addition to being able to literally peel the nails off layer by layer! My osteoporosis has lighten up some although I think the damage done to my joints is permanent now and there is almost no acid reflux after eating now. And the best part? I feel so much better that I’m actually going out and enjoying life! I just wish I had known all this 20 years ago!
Donna, that’s absolutely amazing and I’m so happy for you!! If you want to share your story more in-depth, feel free to email me through https://www.jenniferfugo.com/contact/. Then you can send me pictures too. I love sharing stories like this because it helps to inspire people of what is possible! 🙂
I have hypothyroidism, gas, bloating, abdominal pain, belly distention(after eating bagels, whole wheat bread, pasta, soft pretzels, etc.) osteopenia, high cholesterol, weight gain, and the list goes on. I am currently following Dr Kellyann’s bone broth diet that is gluten, dairy free.
I have 30 symptoms on that list. My biggest issue is inflammation in my joints and muscles ( Polymyositis) , I have been taking prednisone for it, extreme weakness and fatigue. I also have peripheral neuropathy. Daily headaches. I also have keratosis Pilaris and my brain is in a fog all the time. I have had stress issues since I was a child, I was tired a lot, it was like I had to be in a fight or flight state to get any thing done, or use stimulants.
Depression, anxiety, dx bipolar disorder without psychosis.
I feel so sick now I have difficulty cleaning house or showering.
I live on a fixed income so buying organic or grass fed meats is really hard, and, I live in a small town where organic items are not as easy to find. The internet helps out there. I am just learning about gluten.
I am sick and tired of being this sick, I’m only 61.
I have had 38 of the 50 symptoms!! WOW!!!
My gluten sensitive symptoms were
Gas
Bloating
Abdominal pain
Constipation
Anemia
Acid reflux
Acne
Roseca
I had these symptoms for a very long time and took meds for acid reflux for 8 yrs and followed the special diet and still felt like crap. I have been gluten free for ~5 yrs and it’s been amazing how much better I feel.
I experience joint pain and stiffness and if I eat a lot of gluten based foods the roof of my mouth will itch, I will experience bloating and tummy troubles.
Gas, Bloating, Constipation, Nausea, Abdominal Pain, Headaches, Weight Gain, Brain Fog, Fatigue. And can’t seem to lose weight. I feel stuck. I have been diagnosed with gluten intolerance and lactose intolerance also. I do well with a gluten free diet most days but sometimes I fall off the wagon and give into my cravings for pizza or a regular sandwich then pay for it. Ugh. It feels like a losing battle.
Hi Kate, I’m really sorry to hear that you’re still having all this trouble. The reality is that you don’t have to go this journey alone if you’re ready to stop what’s underlying these issues. Perhaps it’s time to reach out for help: http://www.glutenfreeschool.com/strategy-session/
Hi Jennifer,
My comment on how I come to be looking into Gluten is that I myself in life have had lots of digestive issues not knowing why they started later in life? however, my son now has ulcerative colitis at a later age 47years I believe there must be some kind of genetic issue I knew nothing about? maybe an Auto Immune Issue as my daughter has Hoshimotos (thyroid) issues and Gluten/wheat plays a major part in this? as a Kinesiologist health practitioner I have researched lots of conditions and know how bad Gluten/wheat is for the body in normal circumstances, sorry gone off track!! I am helping my granddaughter of 16 to come off Wheat/Gluten for health issues and have given her your list to show her the long list of symptoms that one can have with gluten/wheat sensitivities as I believe and tested her to confirm she does have.
Gas
2. Bloating
3. Diarrhea
4. Constipation
5. Nausea
6. Vomiting
7. Abdominal Pain or belly distention
8. Acid Reflux
9. Micronutrient (vitamins and mineral) deficiency from poor absorption
13. Acne
17. Brain Fog
18. Headaches
19. Migraines
20. Anxiety
21. Depression
22. Mood swings
24. Inability to focus
25. Dizziness or trouble balancing
33. Hot flashes
34. Fatigue
35. Feeling tired after eating a meal that contains gluten (aka. “Food Coma”)
37. Inflammation
39. Exacerbation of autoimmune disease symptoms
40. Low immunity
41. Osteoporosis / Osteomalacia / Low Bone Density
42. Dental Cari
45. Tooth decays
46. Depressed secretory IgA
47. Weight Loss
49. Poor sleep
Heart palpitations
High blood pressure
I’m not sure what mine is but I bloat bad after most all meals and it seems like after I eat a lot of bread I get repeated sinus infections and bad migraines.
I have Bipolar 1 Disorder and found that going gluten and dairy free worked better than any of the 7 medications I’ve tried! I’ve been free of mood swings for 3 months now (was cycling daily prior). I also find that I have more energy and can focus better. My overall cognitive functioning has improved and my anxiety has even decreased. If I do ever ingest gluten, I can tell because within a few hours I will be depressed. I will be trying to figure out why I feel that way and I think back to what I’ve eaten. I can always trace it back to something I ate that probably (or did) have gluten in it. Best decision I have ever made!
I have sibo but think gluten is a trigger. I recently got really sick from eating a lovely lemon cake! Spent a couple days feeling really crummy and am getting back to just a little crummy. I recently found you from sibo SOS site. I’m reading and watching videos a little bit each day. I’ve had most of these symptoms. Thank you for sharing such valuable insights.
I’ve been having issues for awhile now, and now that I’m researching and doctoring and changing my diet, I realize that it’s been a VERY long time. Here is my list:
gas
bloating
diarrhea
belly distension
acid reflux
eczema
psoriasis
brain fog
mood swings
inability to focus
trouble balancing
food coma
canker sores
weight loss
poor sleep
I have already deleted dairy from my diet, not trying to go gluten free as well.
I am overwhelmed to say the least.
I meant to say
NOW trying to delete gluten
debby
I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia with the joint and muscle pain. The rheumatolist suggesting going online to see what other people are doing. One of the on-line suggestions was that a gluten intolerance may be part of the problem along with the other symptoms I had such as fatigue, anxiety, depression, weight gain and bloating, eczema, brain fog, sleep irregularities, frequent I.T’s, constipation, and other G.I. issues. I have found relief by eliminating most glutens from my diet but suffered an increase in allergic reactions just recently which I believe were the result eating beef and corn products which seem to be the cause of additional paid as well as certain threads or fabrics have caused an extreme itching response. I believe I may be sensitive to certain food additives as well so am trying to figure that out. Your seven day gluten free plan seems to be helping me with this recent setback.
I was diagnosed with Celiac’s about 2 mos. ago by my gastroenterologist. Been gluten free, At least thought I was. About 4 days ago, I noticed tiny bumps all over my cheeks and forehead Not red or discolored but… is this the rash from gluten? When does it go away?
.
I have at least 23 of those symptoms.
My total from your list of gluten symptoms is 14 /50.
There are some symptoms in your list, that I don’t recognize their meaning.
There are some of these in my list of 14, which are related to my back surgeries/neck problems, such as Headaches, inability to focus/inflammation/depression/mood swings – lack of sleep…likely inability to focus, can also be caused from pain.
So, it’s difficult for me, as with others…but my past surgeries cause similar symptoms as gluten does. My biggest complaint is lack of sleep due to itchiness/crawling sensation – legs, feet, especially my scalp…and then there’s the symptoms mentioned such as gas/bloating/nausea/major skin lesions…and all the rest of them that are similar to my pain/neck symptoms above. Sensitive skin Is genetic in our family too…my daughter also has the itchy scalp when tired as did my mother. My brother had the skin lesions…but as I’m mentioned before…he was allergic to milk…and that’s why I gave it up….cow’s milk and milk products. [difficult] I also have given up sugar per se…in desserts, etc. Altho trying to avoid it, there are many places it sneaks into my diet, through hidden sugar…gluten free pasta for one.