Non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) is a poorly understood condition that has recently received a lot of attention from patients, care providers, researchers and the media. NCGS is a condition that produces symptoms similar to those seen in celiac disease, however, unlike celiac disease, it is not an autoimmune disorder and does not have a genetic component. This means that when someone with NCGS eats gluten, it will not cause damage to the small intestine but will still produce symptoms.
Common symptoms of NCGS are mental fatigue ("brain fog"), lack of energy or lethargy, gas, bloating, abdominal pain or cramps, diarrhea and even constipation. At this time it is unclear if gluten is the cause of NCGS or if it might be a reaction to a specific sugar or chemical component found in wheat.
Unfortunately, unlike celiac disease, there is no diagnostic test for NCGS...it is a diagnosis of exclusion. This means that your gastroenterologist will only diagnose you with NCGS if both celiac disease and wheat allergy have been ruled out.
In order to be tested for celiac disease YOU MUST BE EATING GLUTEN! Please do not initiate a gluten free diet until you have been tested for both celiac disease and wheat allergy.
