Celiac disease (CD) was initially described in the 1st century by a Greek physician, but it didn’t become clear that CD was caused by an autoimmune reaction to gluten until 1950. Since then, the mainstream view of gluten intolerance has been black & white: either you have celiac disease or you’re tolerant. The truth is, like most things, there are many shades of gray. It turns out most recent research shows it’s possible to have gluten intolerance without having CD. This is known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), and gluten intolerance is more a spectrum of conditions than a single condition.

The most up to date theory states that the intestinal barrier largely determines whether we tolerate or react to toxic substances we ingest. (Food sensitivities, anyone?) The breach of the intestinal barrier (leaky gut) by food toxins like gluten and chemicals like arsenic or BPA causes an immune response which affects the gut and other organs and tissues, including the skeletal system, pancreas, kidneys, liver, and brain.

“All disease begins in the gut.” Hippocrates

As we learn more about the origins of chronic illness, it is becoming clear that Hippocrates knew something 2,000 years ago that modern medicine has been ignoring. Research over the past two decades has revealed that gut health is critical to overall health, and an unhealthy gut contributes to a wide range of diseases, including diabetes, obesity, depression, autism, chronic fatigue syndrome, and autoimmune diseases.

Studies have shown a strong link between autoimmune thyroid disease and gluten intolerance. In fact, it is suggested that all people with autoimmune thyroid disease be screened for gluten intolerance and vice versa; however, this rarely happens in a conventional medical setting. In fact, most people diagnosed with thyroid dysfunction are rarely told to make dietary modifications, which could ultimately save their health.

Did you know your gut plays a vital role in the inner workings of your body? Not only does it break down the food we eat but uses the nutrients to support bodily functions including energy production, hormone balance, mental health and helps eliminate toxins and waste. Another important role your gut plays in keeping you healthy is with your immune system, as nearly 70 % of the immune system is found in the gut. All can be well when your gut is working properly, but sometimes the gut lining may have cracks or holes that can trigger unhealthy problems. This is called leaky gut.