The Telltale Signs of a Gluten Intolerance

6. Diarrhea

When someone with celiac disease eats gluten, their immune response damages the intestinal lining over time. This seriously disrupts the digestion of food, leading to diarrhea or the urgent need to pass loose, watery stools three or more times a day. Although gluten does not damage the intestinal lining of people with non-celiac gluten intolerance, they may still experience diarrhea after consuming it. This condition is not only uncomfortable, but when left untreated, it can eventually lead to other health problems, like chronic fatigue, vitamin deficiencies, and severe dehydration. For these reasons, seeking medical care is important if diarrhea lasts more than three days.

Studies show that once people with celiac disease start a gluten-free diet, they experience a significant reduction in diarrhea compared to those who didn't.