Since removing gluten from my diet, I’ve felt a major improvement in my energy levels and a reduction in digestive discomfort but most surprisingly I’ve felt major benefits in my brain function. I remember things! I used to think I was getting early Alzheimer’s or that I was going crazy! Now, I’m reveling in the focus, clarity and much improved memory recall.
Coeliac disease expert from New Zealand, Dr Rodney Ford, says in his book The Gluten Syndrome, that about 1 in 10 people are affected by the gluten syndrome – a cluster of symptoms that you experience if you react to gluten. He says that these symptoms occur primarily in the nerves, the skin and the gut and cause misery for people. Personally, I’ve seen gluten contribute to arthritis, eating disorders, infertility and obesity.
Why is it such a problem? Well, gluten containing products are being added to our food chain in ever increasing amounts and our wheat is being genetically engineered to contain higher and higher amounts of gluten. Gluten makes our bread light and fluffy!
So, if you have gut problems like diarrhea, weight or eating problems, headaches, moodiness or mental symptoms (or a combination) you might like to get your blood tested of anti gliadin antibodies. This helps determine if you are sensitive to gluten. The next step is to follow a gluten free diet. But more on that next time…
