You and many others might have wondered whether there is a connection between candida and gluten. Apparently, there is. In this article, allow us to breakdown that link in an effort to help you understand the matter more clearly. We will also list down some symptoms associated with celiac disease to warn you about the fact that what you may dismiss as common discomforts are not necessarily normal functions of the body. Hence, the moment you experience any of the things we are about to identify, remember that it is still best to have yourself checked by the doctor to find out the root cause of the things that makes it hard for you to perform your usual activities.
What is Celiac Disease?
For the purpose of discussion, here are some basic facts about celiac disease. As mentioned in the Celiac Disease Foundation’s website, celiac disease is otherwise known as gluten sensitive enteropathy or celiac sprue. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services also refers to celiac disease as nontropical sprue. This disease is also genetic in nature.
It has been recorded that 5-15% of the siblings and offspring of an individual affected by this disease also carry it. If you belong to a family whose members are suffering from an autoimmune disease (as what celiac disease is), your chances to have a celiac disease are increased by 25%.
Candida and Glutten Connection
Candida on the other hand, as defined by the Merriam Webster dictionary is a genus of parasitic fungi which resemble yeasts. It comprises the normal flora of the human skin, mouth, vagina and intestinal tract. However, it can also become pathogenic or capable of causing disease.
In the article “Is gluten the new Candida?”, Scott Gavura pointed out that about 1 person out of 100 has celiac disease. Considering that the people who are suffering from this disease are advised to avoid consuming food containing gluten, it is good to know that there has been a rising demand for gluten labeling. Today, as Gavura mentioned in the same article, there are even more choices when it comes to gluten-free (GF) foods.
Gluten and Yeast
As the University of Maryland Medical Center points out, gluten, besides dairy and preservatives, may likewise contribute to the development of yeast infection. Usually, the symptoms associated to yeast infection are similar to those related to celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Since the distinction is not easy to establish, most people then to eliminate yeast and gluten altogether from their diets.
Celiac Disease and Gluten is a harmful combination
Young and old people alike can suffer from such disease. Being a lifelong digestive disease, it is also a condition that one has to live with. People with celiac disease are advised to refrain from eating foods containing gluten. That is because such content triggers a toxic reaction that damages the small intestine. The damage specifically harms the villi which lines the small intestine. It permits the absorption of the nutrients from foods to the human body. Since the condition hinders the proper absorption of the nutrients, the person with celiac disease becomes malnourished.
The U.S Department of Health and Human Services clarifies that such condition is not only a disease of malabsorption. Rather, it is likewise an abnormal immune reaction of one’s body to the specific protein known as gluten.
It is important to take note too that there are instances wherein such disease is triggered after one has undergone surgery, conceived a baby or gave birth to one. Additionally, viral infection and severe emotional stress can also trigger celiac disease in people.
Gluten is a substance that is found in all forms of wheat. Barley and rye similarly contain this substance. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services further emphasized that gluten can likewise be an ingredient found in other products besides food. In particular, your lip balm, vitamins, and medicines can have it too.
Symptoms of Celiac Disease
People with such condition can experience discomforts that may include but are not limited to chronic diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, weight loss, fatty, foul-smelling or pale stool, and abdominal bloating and pain, fatigue, depression or anxiety, unexplained iron-deficiency anemia, arthritis, osteoporosis, bone or joint pain, missed menstrual periods, recurrent miscarriage, infertility and seizures.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services also warns that there are cases wherein no symptoms are manifested. Complications of the disease may also be fatal as in cancers of the intestine.
When to see the Doctor
In the hectic lives we lead, you and I often find it hard to set aside a time for ourselves. You and I usually put off our visits to the doctor until the discomforts we are feeling are already too worse to not mind. That is behavior we need to address. It is vital to remember that regular check-ups are as important as other responsibilities combined. After all, who would take care of our own responsibilities when our poor health gets in the way?
