Is Gluten Messing With You? Signs of Intolerance, How to Find Out, and What to Eat Instead

toabetterself
Jul 2
3 min read

Hey Beautiful,

Let’s have a real talk about something that might be quietly affecting your energy, your digestion, your skin, and even your mood: gluten.

Now, this isn’t about jumping on a trend or cutting carbs for the sake of “clean eating.” This is about tuning into your body and learning how to feel your best. Because if you’ve been feeling bloated, foggy, or just “off,” gluten sensitivity might be part of the picture—and you deserve to know what’s going on inside your beautiful body.

Let’s break it all down, gently and clearly—no fear, no extremes. Just awareness, education, and options.

What Is Gluten, Anyway?

Gluten is a group of proteins found in wheat, barley, rye, and anything made with them (think bread, pasta, cereals, pastries).

It gives dough its stretch and chew, and it’s in more foods than you might realize—even soy sauce, dressings, and some supplements.

Signs You Might Be Sensitive to Gluten

Here’s the tricky part—gluten intolerance can show up in ways that are easy to miss or mislabel. It’s not always just a stomach issue.

Common Signs of Gluten Intolerance:

Bloating or stomach cramps after eating
Fatigue or brain fog, especially post-meal
Constipation or diarrhea
Skin issues (eczema, acne, or rashes)
Anxiety, depression, or mood swings
Headaches or joint pain
Iron deficiency or frequent fatigue
Feeling “puffy” or inflamed
Pelvic Floor Pain

* Important: Gluten intolerance is not the same as celiac disease (an autoimmune condition), but the symptoms can overlap.

How to Find Out If Gluten Is Affecting You

1. Keep a Symptom Journal

Start by tracking how you feel after meals. Bloating, fatigue, or skin flares within a few hours could be clues.

2. Try an Elimination Diet (with support!)

Cut gluten for 2–4 weeks, then reintroduce it slowly. Pay close attention to how your body reacts.

* Tip: Do this with guidance if you can—either with your own journaling method or support from a nutritionist or holistic practitioner.

3. Ask Your Doctor About Testing

There are blood tests for gluten sensitivity, celiac, and wheat allergy. They’re not always 100% conclusive—but they can be a helpful part of the puzzle.

What to Eat Instead (Without Feeling Deprived)

Let’s be honest: the idea of cutting gluten can feel overwhelming. But here’s the truth—there are so many delicious options that don’t involve restriction.

Gluten-Free, Feel-Good Foods:

Quinoa, brown rice, millet, buckwheat
Potatoes, sweet potatoes, squash
Oats (make sure they are gluten-free certified)
Fresh fruits + veggies
Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, beans)
Eggs, meat, tofu, and fish
Gluten-free breads, pastas, and baked goods (so many good ones now!)

* Bonus tip: Check labels, and go for whole-food options as often as possible to avoid overly processed “gluten-free” junk.

Final Thought: Your Body Knows—Listen to Her

This isn’t about cutting out gluten just because. It’s about learning how to support your body, reduce inflammation, and live in a way that feels clear, light, and grounded.

So if you’ve been feeling like something’s off, this is your gentle invitation to explore. Tune in. Get curious. You deserve to feel good in your skin—and you have options.