Intolerance to wheat can suppress the immune system and lead to a biological disposition for depression. Most individuals with food intolerances do not even know they have them. In addition to depressed moods, the Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome Association of America posits that individuals may experience chronic conditions that relate to decreased immunity. These symptoms and attributable conditions can ultimately impair quality of life by developing into arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, asthma and irritable bowel syndrome, to name a few.
Psychological Symptoms
The psychological symptoms associated with depression include gloomy mood, feelings of hopelessness or helplessness, low self-esteem, excessive guilt, being easily irritated, and a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities. You may also experience problems retaining information, remembering past events, or having difficulty concentrating on tasks or making important decisions. Some individuals will also experience a reduced sex drive, anxiety and panic attacks, and recurring thoughts of suicide. According to the National Health Service of the United Kingdom, if these are new symptoms, you may have developed a heightened sensitivity to wheat or experienced food aversion, which is the perception that a certain food group is responsible for medical ailments. A licensed nutritionist can help determine what avenues should be pursued.
Physiological Symptoms
Physiological changes may also occur with depression. According to the Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome Association of America, depression can be triggered by wheat intolerance or other environmental triggers. If physical movements become more rigid, impaired or otherwise slowed, there may be an immune response to blame. Other characteristics pertaining to depression include appetite changes that result in weight loss or gain, and sleep disturbances.
Social Implications
Social implications involved with depression from wheat are generally the result of lethargy. Symptoms attributable to depression include withdrawal from family and friends, poor academic or work performance and relationship strain. Depression is a serious medical and mental health condition that can have long-term consequences. If you or a loved one is suffering from any of the aforementioned symptoms, it is imperative to consult with a licensed health professional. Not only can psychotherapy help, but making lifestyle changes, including diet, also can begin to turn the situation around.
Elimination as Partial Treatment
To determine whether or not you have developed an intolerance to wheat products, try the elimination diet for up to a month. The best way to initiate this process is to eliminate all foods with wheat or wheat products in them. On nutritional labels, wheat products may be listed as whole wheat, enriched flour, high gluten flour, high protein flour, bran, farina, graham flour, bulgur, durum, semolina, malt, wheat starch or modified starch. It is a good idea to eliminate these items completely and be cautious of baked foods, bread crumbs, crackers, cereals, Acker meal, couscous, pasta, spelt, products with gluten, and hydrolyzed vegetable protein as they often have wheat derivatives in them. If symptoms have improved, it is highly likely that wheat is the culprit.
