Expert Warns Against Self-Diagnosis for gluten Issues, Emphasizes Professional Consultation
Digestive discomfort is a common ailment, but experts caution against attributing it solely to gluten without proper medical diagnosis. While celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten consumption, requires complete avoidance of the protein, other gluten-related issues like wheat allergies and non-celiac gluten sensitivity are less prevalent and necessitate professional evaluation.
Dr. Thomason, a medical professional, stresses the importance of consulting a dietitian or physician for accurate diagnosis. “Just as your stomach hurts doesn’t mean you have a problem with gluten,” Thomason stated. “Digestive symptoms can have manny causes, and self-diagnosis can lead to unnecessary food restrictions and foster a fear of food.”
Celiac disease, as defined by the National Health Institutes (NIH), occurs when individuals consume gluten-containing foods, leading to impaired nutrient absorption and potentially long-term digestive problems. For those diagnosed with celiac disease, a strict gluten-free diet is essential.
The article originally appeared in USA Today with the headline, “Why everyone hates gluten, and what experts say.”
