Gluten is a form of protein found in many grain products, including wheat, rye and barley. While it is well-known for its connection to gastrointestinal maladies, gluten is harmless to the majority of people. Persons with celiac disease or who have sensitivities to gluten, however, may experience bloating and abdominal discomfort after consuming it.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is a condition that causes adverse reactions and damage to your small intestine when gluten is eaten. Because your small intestine is responsible for absorbing key nutrients in your body, not only do you experience inflammation, you also can have nutritional deficiencies. Celiac disease is chiefly a genetic condition, meaning if your parents have been sensitive to gluten, it’s likely you will be as well. Stress, injury, infection or surgery that can lower your immune system, however, may make your sensitivity to gluten more pronounced. Gluten intolerance is another condition in which sensitive persons experience gastrointestinal discomfort -- usually much milder than celiac disease -- after consumption of gluten-containing products.
Bloating
Bloating refers to extra gas in your abdominal tract. Many factors can contribute to bloating, from swallowing too much air when you eat to a gluten sensitivity. Because your body cannot effectively break down gluten, extra gas may be given off in your intestines as your body attempts to digest it. If you notice a pattern of bloating each time you eat foods that contain gluten, this can signal a possible sensitivity. Over time, your symptoms can become more severe, including nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.
Gluten and Foods
Knowing what foods contain gluten can help you determine a link between bloating and your food intake. In addition to its natural presence in many grain products, gluten is also added to many standard food items as a thickener, including salad dressing, pasta sauces and candies. This may mean you should avoid foods such as breads, cakes, cereals, crackers, pasta, processed lunch meats and soups unless they are specifically labeled “gluten-free."
Solution
If you experience bloating after eating gluten-containing foods, see your physician. You may wish to avoid foods known to contain gluten in the meantime. You also can increase your water intake, which can help to reduce bloating and flush your stool through your small intestine as quickly as possible. Because untreated celiac disease can lead to permanent damage to your intestines, seeking treatment as early as possible is important. Persons with celiac disease should not eat gluten. Even a small amount can cause severe symptoms.
