This thorough article seeks to demystify gluten intolerance testing and provide insightful information, whether you suffer from unexplained stomach problems or want to learn more about gluten sensitivity.
In recent years, there has been a lot of interest in gluten sensitivity, also known as gluten intolerance. Many people have mentioned feeling symptoms after eating meals containing gluten, which has led them to question if they are sensitive to this protein-based compound found in wheat, barley, and rye.
But don’t worry! We will walk you through the complex technicalities and direct you toward reliable testing procedures that can assist in identifying whether gluten intolerance is the source of your suffering.
What is gluten intolerance?
A negative reaction to consuming gluten is the hallmark of gluten intolerance, sometimes referred to as gluten sensitivity.
A protein compound known as gluten is present in a number of cereals, including wheat, barley, and rye.
Gluten sensitivity differs from celiac disease and wheat allergy while having certain commonalities with both.
Contrary to celiac disease, an autoimmune condition, gluten intolerance does not entail the small intestine being attacked by the immune system [1].
However, it can also result in comparable symptoms including bloating, stomach discomfort, and changes in bowel habits.
Although the precise causes of gluten intolerance are not yet entirely known, research indicates that a mix of genetic, immunological and environmental factors may be at play.
The absence of intestinal damage in gluten intolerance is one of the main differences between it and celiac disease.
In people with celiac disease, eating gluten sets off an immunological reaction that damages the lining of the small intestine.
On the other hand, gluten intolerance does not result in this typical intestinal damage.
It’s crucial to understand that a wheat allergy, which is an immunological reaction, particularly to proteins present in wheat, differs from gluten intolerance.
In addition to stomach symptoms, wheat allergy can also result in allergic responses including skin rashes, respiratory problems or even anaphylaxis in extreme situations.
Signs and symptoms of gluten intolerance
Numerous indications and symptoms of gluten intolerance might appear, and they can differ in severity and presentation from person to person.
Although gluten sensitivity is frequently accompanied with digestive issues, it’s crucial to remember that other symptoms might also appear [2].
Observe the following typical warning signs and symptoms:
Digestive Symptoms
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Bloating and flatulence
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Nausea and vomiting
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)-like symptoms
Non-Digestive Symptoms
- Fatigue and weakness
- Headaches or migraines
- Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
- Joint and muscle pain
- Skin rashes or dermatitis herpetiformis (a specific skin manifestation of gluten sensitivity)
- Mood changes, including depression and anxiety
Types of gluten intolerance tests
Healthcare practitioners use a variety of tests to gauge the body’s reaction to gluten in order to correctly identify gluten intolerance.
These tests can aid in identifying celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, and other connected diseases.
The following are some typical test types used to determine gluten intolerance:
Blood Tests
- IgG and IgA antibody tests
These tests assess the blood levels of certain antibodies (IgG and IgA) that may represent an immunological reaction to gluten [3].
- Tissue Transglutaminase (tTG) test
This test detects tTG antibody levels, which are frequently increased in celiac disease sufferers but may also be a sign of gluten intolerance.
- Deamidated Gliadin Peptide (DGP) test
This test looks for antibodies to deamidated gliadin peptide, another indicator of an immunological reaction to gluten.
Genetic testing
- HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 genes
Specific genetic markers, such as the HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 genes, which are linked to a higher risk of developing celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, can be detected by genetic testing.
Elimination diet
This technique entails eliminating gluten-containing items from the diet for a certain amount of time, usually a few weeks to months.
Gluten intolerance may be indicated if symptoms become better during the gluten-elimination phase but recur thereafter.
Endoscopy and biopsy
An endoscopic procedure may be used to visually inspect the small intestine when celiac disease is suspected.
To check for intestine damage indicative of celiac disease, biopsies can be obtained.
Pros and cons of gluten intolerance testing methods
Testing for gluten intolerance can help diagnose the disorder and provides useful information on the prevalence of immunological reactions associated with gluten.
Each testing technique does, however, have a unique mix of benefits and drawbacks.
Making educated judgments about testing can be facilitated by being aware of the advantages and disadvantages of certain techniques.
Here are some important things to think about:
Blood tests
- Pros
Blood tests are often straightforward and convenient because they just require a little blood sample.
It may be performed in a variety of medical settings and are readily accessible.
It also evaluates the number of antibodies linked to celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, giving important information about the immune system.
- Cons
If a person has just stopped eating gluten or has low antibody levels, blood tests may result in false-negative findings.
They do not offer concrete evidence of gluten sensitivity, but they can also signal an immunological response to gluten.
Genetic testing
- Pros
Genetic testing can reveal the existence of particular genetic markers linked to a higher risk of developing gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
Even before symptoms appear, genetic testing can be helpful for identifying those who are at risk.
- Cons
Gluten sensitivity or celiac disease cannot be confirmed or ruled out by genetic testing alone.
Genetic markers do not always indicate a current illness.
Some genetic markers linked to celiac disease are widespread in the community, rendering them inconclusive when used in isolation.
Elimination diet
- Pros
By eliminating gluten from their diet and monitoring symptom changes, people can use the elimination diet to determine their precise reaction to gluten.
The elimination phase may reveal a gluten sensitivity or intolerance if symptoms become better.
- Cons
The elimination diet calls for prolonged, stringent adherence to a gluten-free diet, usually for several weeks to months.
Improvement of symptoms while on the elimination diet does not always indicate that one is intolerant to gluten, as other variables may also be at play.
Endoscopy and biopsy
- Pros
Visual and histological proof of the intestinal damage typical of celiac disease can be obtained by endoscopy with biopsy.
The ability to distinguish between non-celiac gluten sensitivity and celiac disease can be aided by endoscopy and biopsy.
- Cons
A tube must be inserted into the digestive tract during an endoscopy, which has a modest risk of problems.
Procedures using endoscopy could be more expensive and call for specialist medical facilities.
Preparing for gluten intolerance testing
To obtain precise and trustworthy findings, preparation is essential for gluten intolerance testing.
The interpretation of test findings may be impacted by potential confounding variables, which can be reduced with adequate preparation.
Here are some crucial actions to take into account before a gluten sensitivity test:
Consult with a healthcare professional
It is crucial to speak with a medical expert with expertise in illnesses associated with gluten before conducting any tests.
Based on your symptoms, medical history and unique needs, they can advise you on the best testing.
Maintain a gluten-containing diet
Prior to the test, it’s crucial to keep eating meals that contain gluten, especially if you’re thinking about having blood work or genetic testing done [4].
When gluten is avoided prior to these tests, the diagnosis’ accuracy may suffer and false-negative findings may be obtained.
Observe the guidelines provided by your healthcare provider on the amount of time to consume gluten before testing.
Medication and supplement adjustments
Some prescription drugs and dietary supplements may affect test findings.
Any medications you are presently taking, including over-the-counter medicines and nutritional supplements, should be disclosed to your healthcare provider.
Before the test, they will let you know if any revisions are required.
Communicate any dietary changes
Before the test, let your doctor know whether you’ve previously begun a gluten-free diet or made substantial dietary changes.
To get reliable findings, they might advise reinstating gluten into your diet for a certain amount of time before testing.
Understand testing procedures
Learn about the precise testing methods that your healthcare provider has advised.
Endoscopy and biopsy need a more intrusive treatment whereas blood tests often only require a quick blood collection.
Your worries and fears might be reduced if you know what to anticipate.
Follow pre-testing instructions
Before the test, your healthcare provider could give you detailed instructions to follow.
A necessity to fast before blood tests or other preparations for specialist procedures may be included in these guidelines.
To guarantee reliable testing, it is crucial to follow these guidelines.
Keep a symptom journal
Keeping track of your symptoms in the weeks before the test might provide your doctor with important information.
Record the length of any digestive or non-digestive symptoms you have, along with any triggers you notice.
The assessment and interpretation of test findings can be aided by this information.
Conclusion
To recognize the presence of this medical condition and to make wise dietary and treatment decisions, accurate testing for gluten intolerance is essential.
Numerous diagnostic techniques, including blood tests, genetic testing, elimination diets and endoscopy, offer important information on the immunological reactions and intestinal damage brought on by gluten.
The selection of testing, however, should be based on specific circumstances and advice from healthcare professionals because each approach has advantages and disadvantages of its own.
People may overcome the difficulties of gluten intolerance testing and learn more about their disease by sticking to the correct preparation and getting expert advice.
FAQs
Can you self diagnose gluten intolerance?
No, self-diagnosis has the potential to postpone the right assessment and management of symptoms and can result in incorrect conclusions. The symptoms of gluten intolerance are similar to those of other illnesses like celiac disease or wheat allergy, which need to be diagnosed specifically by testing.
Can gluten intolerance go away?
No, gluten intolerance is typically a lifetime issue once identified. Gluten intolerance is often a lifelong sensitivity to gluten, unlike allergies, which can occasionally be overcome.
What is the most accurate test for gluten sensitivity?
Blood testing along with an exclusion diet under a doctor’s supervision provides the most reliable test for gluten sensitivity. Specific antibodies linked to gluten sensitivity, such as IgG and IgA antibodies, tissue transglutaminase (tTG), and deamidated gliadin peptide (DGP) antibodies can all be measured in blood testing. These tests offer insightful data on the immune system’s reaction to gluten.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7020197
[2] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21622-gluten-intolerance
[3] https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/test-immunoglobulins.html
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6213115/
