Some people tend to confuse celiac disease for gluten sensitivity. However, this is not always the case considering these two are different in their own way. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the body’s immune response to gluten, resulting in the immune system attacking the same intestine. The attack damages the intestinal lining, impairing nutrient absorption, and leading to a cascade of symptoms.
Things tend to be different with gluten sensitivity since it doesn’t involve the autoimmune aspect common in celiac disease. It primarily triggers gastrointestinal discomfort or other symptoms without causing the same level of physical damage to the intestine. Having said that, let’s take you through the benefits of a gluten sensitivity test.
Early Detection and Prevention
Timely testing for gluten sensitivity is essential considering it offers the opportunity for early intervention. Detecting gluten sensitivity at an early stage allows people to make informed dietary adjustments, mitigating the risk of complications and improving their quality of life. For anyone with celiac disease, early diagnosis is paramount to prevent intestinal damage and associated health issues.
Accuracy and Types of Testing
You don’t have to confine yourself to one gluten sensitivity test since there are different types available, including blood tests to identify specific antibodies and genetic testing to determine susceptibility to celiac disease. Intestinal biopsies remain the gold standard for confirming celiac disease.
Even though these tests are generally accurate, interpreting results calls for expertise due to potential false negatives and the need for comprehensive evaluation. That’s why you should learn to exercise caution when it comes to a gluten sensitivity test.
Health Risks and Unaddressed Sensitivity
Before we conclude, it is important to remember that ignoring gluten sensitivity can lead to significant health risks. Continuous consumption of gluten for people with sensitivity or undiagnosed celiac disease can lead to malnutrition, gastrointestinal distress, increased susceptibility to infections, and heightened inflammation.
Addressing sensitivity through the ideal testing and subsequent dietary modifications helps mitigate these risks and fosters better overall health. For this reason, you should never skimp on what agluten sensitivity test can do.
