Can Gluten Free Diets Make You Sick?

   It is possible that gluten free diets can make those people sensitive to substances other than or in addition to gliadin (the gluten found in barley, rye and wheat) feel unwell or even worse. It is possible that gluten free products contain other things that make you sick. Not because they are gluten free, but because you may be sensitive to the sugars or other things in gluten free products. They are usually loaded with various sugars and other starches. So, can a gluten free diet make you sick? I don’t think so. A better answer would be to find out what really bothers you and work from there. We shouldn’t just assume that gluten is the problem for every gastrointestinal ailment.

   Other dietary triggers that can potentially cause gastrointestinal symptoms can include lactose and casein from dairy products, certain preservatives and poorly digested carbohydrates known as FODMAPS. If you are sensitive to gliadin, there has been some research done on cross-reactivity, where your body reacts to peptides similar to wheat gluten. However, as with most studies, there are conflicting results and theories.
   Since gluten is found in grasses and grains, their effect can range from non-toxic to initiating auto-immune responses (such as celiac disease). Even cutting out all grains might not solve your stomach issues, if the real culprit is dairy, or one of the many FODMAPS.
   This further reinforces that we are all different. There is no blanket treatment or diet. There is no one answer that fits all. We can do our best to be tested, if possible, and proceed with caution. I would still suggest eating real food, limit manufactured or processed foods and those foods that contain so many chemicals that you need a Masters in chemistry just to figure out what you are placing in your mouth.
   If you are suffering, I hope that you find relief soon. Take care and may you find and maintain good health.