When it comes to irritation of the digestive tract, ie IBS, abdominal bloating/pain, constipation, there are usually three sources of the irritation: Celiac disease/gluten sensitivity, bacterial infection/ parasites, or an overgrowth of bad bacteria and/or yeast.
In both Celiac disease and gluten intolerance, the body experiences adverse effects when gluten which is the protein found in wheat, rye, and spelt is eaten. Symptoms can often look the same with both Celiac disease and Gluten intolerance.
I have found that probably the easiest and most profound way to determine if you have an intolerance or sensitivity to Gluten is to eliminate it for 30 days and then add it back in. Notice any allergic reaction that you might experience which can range from bloating, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, puffiness, 2-3 pound weight gain overnight (due to histamine production) or sleepiness after eating a high carbohydrate meal.
Sometimes, it can seem overwelming to take gluten completely out of your diet. I have some wonderful menus and recipes that can help. If you are interested in receiving these, please e-mail me.
There is are simple tests to determine if you might have a parasite or bacterial infection, overgrowth of bad bacteria/yeast or a gluten sensitivity. If you do suffer from gassiness, bloating, reflux, or even anxiety, I would recommend completing a simple stool test that you can do in your own home and mail off to the lab.