Symptoms
of NCGS Symptoms are varied and can affect different parts of the body. Common symptoms include:
Gastrointestinal issues: Bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, nausea.
Neurological symptoms: "Brain fog," headache, fatigue, anxiety, depression.
Dermatological issues: Skin rashes, eczema.
Other symptoms: Joint pain, muscle pain, numbness in extremities.
Causes
of NCGS The exact cause is not fully understood. While gluten is implicated, other components of wheat and related grains (such as FODMAPs - fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols, amylase-trypsin inhibitors (ATIs)) might also contribute to symptoms. Some research suggests that an altered gut microbiome may play a role.
Medicine Used
for NCGS There is no specific medication to treat NCGS. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms primarily through dietary changes. Medications may be used to address specific symptoms (e.g., antidiarrheals, pain relievers), but these are not treatments for NCGS itself.
Precautions
for NCGS The primary precaution is following a gluten-free diet. This involves:
Avoiding foods containing wheat, barley, and rye.
Carefully reading food labels to check for hidden sources of gluten.
Being aware of cross-contamination when preparing food.
Working with a registered dietitian to ensure a balanced and nutritious gluten-free diet.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of symptoms varies. Symptoms typically appear hours or days after gluten ingestion and can resolve within days to weeks of removing gluten from the diet. Continued exposure to gluten will likely result in recurring symptoms.
Timeline of Symptoms
of NCGS
Onset: Symptoms usually appear hours to days after consuming gluten.
Duration: Without dietary changes, symptoms persist as long as gluten is consumed.
Resolution: Symptoms typically improve or resolve within days to weeks of following a strict gluten-free diet.
Relapse: Symptoms return after reintroduction of gluten into the diet.
Important Considerations
for NCGS
Self-diagnosis is discouraged: It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and to rule out other conditions.
Nutritional deficiencies: Following a restrictive diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Work with a dietitian to ensure adequate nutrient intake.
Long-term effects: The long-term effects of NCGS are not fully understood and are an area of ongoing research.
Individual Variability: Symptoms and tolerance levels can vary significantly from person to person.