Detox: Could Gluten Be the Culprit?

Detox diets are becoming ever more popular in today’s world. Detoxification of the body can increase energy levels, help you sleep better, and even erase pain in the joints and muscles when it’s done safely under the guidance of a physician or naturopathic doctor.

Detox tends to be pursued by those who feel fatigued or tired; who have widespread bodily pain; who have bloating or gastrointestinal issues; or who suffer from “brain fog,” memory problems, or sluggish thinking. If it feels like your body just isn’t acting the way it should, it’s tempting to turn to “detox” regimes for help.

Could Your Symptoms Be Due to Gluten Intolerance?

All of the symptoms I’ve listed above could be due to gluten intolerance or gluten sensitivity. Many people who suffer from gluten intolerance don’t know that gluten is the culprit. But if the gluten in your system is eliciting even a minor allergic reaction, you could suffer from gas, bloating, gastric upset, swelling, tingling in the hands and feet, and a range of mental symptoms from “brain fog” to vision problems.

Gluten is a silent menace—it dresses up in some of the most decadent treats on the planet, and causes a slow onset of medical symptoms that can be almost unnoticeable for years.

Gluten-Free as Detox

A gluten-free diet has the same impacts on the body as any other detox diets. Your symptoms may subside within a week or two, or you may suffer a spike in symptoms that make you feel worse before you feel better.

If you’re gluten intolerant but your body has been forced to live with the stresses of gluten-filled eating for many years, it may go through withdrawal and even intense cravings for breads and sweets. Stick to your guns, and you’ll begin to feel the positive effects of a gluten-free diets within a few weeks or a few months.

Author Bio: +Michelle Gordon is a sleep expert who researches and writes about sleep and health, and is an online publisher for the latex mattress specialist Latexmattress.org.