Non-celiac gluten sensitivity or gluten intolerance comes with a wide range of symptoms from rashes to digestive issues. Medicating all these disparate afflictions will soon have you popping pills like a Pez dispenser. Luckily, there are some natural ways in which you can beat the gluten blues without negative side effects. Modern baking methods and processed foods mean our bodies are ingesting far more gluten than we can handle. The result is a sharp rise in reports of gluten allergies. There are so many symptoms of gluten intolerance that many sufferers sadly go undiagnosed. If you are suffering from some of these symptoms, try cutting gluten from your diet for a month to gauge results. The Symptoms of Gluten Intolerance
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain and bloating
- Gas, diarrhea and constipation
- Dizziness
- Low energy levels
- Inability to concentrate or focus
- Poor memory
- Depression or anxiety
- Irritability and mood swings
- Headaches, tension headaches, cluster headaches and migraines
- Joint pain
- Numbness or tingling in arms and legs, hands and feet
- Rashes and other skin irritations
- Hives or canker sores
- Anemia
Go Gluten-Free
I know, it’s a big step, but just think how wonderful you’ll feel. There are some great gluten-free products on the market that are healthy and delicious. A word of caution here; don’t just cut out everything with gluten—life’s too short for bad meals! Instead, replace items with gluten-free alternatives that may require you to learn to cook a little differently, but will be well worth the effort. Try organic artisanal breads as these contain whole grains and are baked using traditional methods that let bread leaven naturally; giving the gluten time to change into digestible sugar. When choosing gluten-free products, check the label as some are crammed with other chemicals and added sugar—just because it’s gluten-free, doesn’t mean it’s healthy. Go back to a more natural diet of whole grains, fruits and vegetables and steer clear of canned and processed foods. Opt for sprouted grains where possible as they are more nutritious. If you are suffering from the symptoms of gluten intolerance, here are some natural remedies that can get you back to your best self: 
Turmeric and Ginger These wonderful herbs reduce inflammation in the body and strengthen the immune system. They help to repair intestinal walls which are damaged by gluten intolerance and lead to uncomfortable digestive issues as well as an inability to absorb nutrients. Ginger will help to combat the nausea and vomiting that you experience as a result of gluten intolerance.
Echinacea This is an excellent immune system booster which will help your body to naturally overcome many of the symptoms of gluten intolerance.
Probiotics Nothing restores the digestive system’s natural balance better than these little bacteria buddies. They combat the ‘bad’ bacteria, help the body absorb nutrients from food and play a crucial role in the manufacturing of hormones. Bacteria are essential for the efficient processing of food and the extraction of vitamins. They produce anti-inflammatories and even control your mood. These diminutive beasties are really essential to keeping you healthy and happy.
Omega-3 Healthy oils from fatty fish can help to coat the intestinal tract which relieves the symptoms that result from damage to these areas caused by gluten. Omega-3 oils prevent inflammation of the small intestine and the resultant symptoms and discomfort.
