Gluten intolerance, a genetic disorder caused due to adverse reactions of the body to a protein called gluten, which causes inflammation of the upper small intestine resulting in various health complications.

Gluten is a mixture of two components – gliadin and glutenin, which results in a sticky dough like texture when mixed with water. For some people, gliadin does not suit the body and causes inflammation in the small intestine. Due to this, the tiny protrusions called villi found in the interior walls of the intestine are not able to absorb vital nutrients. Excess of calcium, minerals, vitamins and fat are passed in the stools. Since the nourishment is not really adequate, deficiency related disorders are common.

Gluten intolerance can result in sudden and unhealthy weight loss or weight gain of the individual. For instance, diarrhea results in weight loss as excessive water from the body is removed along with some vital nutrients. Dehydration results in loss of weight. Similarly, anaemia, exhaustion, fatigue and digestive disorder generally results in unhealthy weight loss of the person. However, depending on the nature of thyroid disorders caused due to gluten intolerance, hypo or hyper thyroid syndrome can either increase or decrease the weight of the person.

In the case of pregnant women, malabsorption of nutrients can cause serious health complications resulting in congenital malformation, miscarriages and also excessive weight gain during pregnancy and even obesity. Abnormal absorption of fat and excess passing of fat and calcium in stools can also result in weight abnormalities.

Some people who have this disorder exhibit clear symptoms while for some, there are some abnormalities seen in the digestive tract. High amount of damage is also seen in the small intestine and hence, the diagnosis may become slightly difficult due to such varied symptoms from individual to individual.

Gluten intolerant people have to avoid food items that contain barley, rye and wheat in any form (as a staple ingredient or a by-product). For example, certain cereals, cookies, bread, lipsticks, medications and vitamin supplements contain hidden gluten content in them. They have to be completely avoided to prevent further damage to the intestine. Otherwise, the chances of developing gastro intestinal cancer are pretty high.

In addition, patients suffering from gluten intolerance should balance their emotional levels and stress levels in order to prevent the worsening of general health and aggravating the symptoms of the disorder. Breast feeding by mothers for a longer period of time and starting gluten-containing food products at later ages for the child are also some ways to prevent gluten intolerance among children.

Reports suggest that around 2 million people in America suffer from gluten intolerance and the related disorders. People from Northern European descent are found to be more prone to this disease. Since this disorder is genetic in nature, if one family member contracts this disease, there is also a chance that the descendants may also be affected at a later point of time. Hence, if there is constant problem with general health and fitness, biopsy and blood test needs to be taken to diagnose this disorder.