Allergy to Grain

Those with an allergic reaction to grain suffer from a sensitivity to gluten. Gluten--the protein found in all forms of wheat and certain grains--can cause reactionary symptoms such as gas, diarrhea, bloating and abdominal pain. Celiac Disease, a more serious gluten intolerance, is an autoimmune condition resulting in far-reaching, consequential effects if left untreated.

Gluten and Grains

Most, if not all, processed foods contain one or more grains that trigger allergic responses in persons sensitive to gluten. Gluten is found in wheat (including durum, semolina, spelt, kamut, einkorn and faro) as well as rye, barley and triticale.

A growing supply of gluten-free products are available in stores and online due to increased demand for grain alternatives. According to the Celiac Sprue Association, buckwheat, montina, quinoa, brown rice flour, coconut flour, corn flour, modified tapioca starch, and nut-based flours are some acceptable possibilities.

Symptoms of Grain Allergies

Symptoms of grain allergies can include dizziness, fatigue, muscle pain, skin irritations, respiratory conditions, digestive problems or anaphylaxis, reports the Mayo Clinic. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction in the form of chest pain, swollen throat, difficult breathing, pale skin, fainting or a weak pulse.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease, also known as gluten sensitive enteropathy (GSE), is a lifelong digestive disorder affecting one out of 133 people in the United States, as stated by the Celiac Disease Foundation. Celiac disease is not considered a food allergy but symptoms can be similar to those of an allergic response to grains.

Individuals with Celiac disease impair tiny hair-like projections called villi when gluten is ingested. Consequently, important nutrients like proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals can not be properly absorbed when the villi are damaged. Damage occurs in the small intestine and can cause life-threatening, long-term ramifications such as vitamin deficiencies, pancreatic insufficiencies, neurological manifestations and gallbladder malfunction.

Symptoms of Celiac Disease

Symptoms of Celiac disease can include gas, bloating, diarrhea, weight loss, fatigue, weakness and vomiting. Stools may be loose and more periodic. Due to intestinal damage and the difficulty to absorb vital nutrients, anemia or osteoporosis can result.

Treatment

Avoidance is the best defense in treating any allergy. When it comes to grain allergies, read all food and cosmetic labels to eliminate any unwanted exposure. However, antihistamines and epinephrine (an emergency treatment for anaphylaxis) are both acceptable treatments if an exposure occurs.

Since Celiac disease is a chronic condition, the only treatment is total avoidance. Nutritional supplementation may be suggested by a physician to correct any nutritional deficiencies.