Gluten Free

It’s been stated many times prior just how important diet is in achieving optimal fertility. What if you were intolerant to gluten and didn’t know. Known as celiac disease, this intolerance is a digestive disease and causes damage to the villi (line the inner wall of the small intestine. Responsible for the absorption of nutrients from food.)

Celiac disease causes malabsorption, when gluten is ingested the villi are flattened by the antibodies produced by the immune system and disappear. Without the villi, a person becomes malnourished, unable to absorb any nutrients, vitamins and minerals.

Gluten is found in many grains, medicines, vitamins and even lip balms. Celiac disease is often found to be genetic. However, it can be triggered by surgery, pregnancy, infection, or even severe emotional stress.

Symptoms may include:
• Abdominal bloating and pain
• Chronic diarrhea
• Constipation
• Pale, foul smelling stools
• Weight loss/weight gain
• Irritability
• Iron-deficiency anemia
• Numbness of hands or feet
• Canker sores in the mouth
• Itchy skin rash
• Seizures

Sometimes there are no symptoms of the disease. This could be the case for an unexplained infertility. Speak to your doctor if you have any concerns.

Celiac disease can impede fertility by causing amenorrhea or irregular periods, as your body is not getting any nutrients. Recurrent miscarriage has also been linked to celiac disease. Men have also shown reproductive issues as a result of celiac disease, including low sperm counts and motility.

There is no cure for celiac disease; only option is to adjust your diet.