Is it gluten that makes me tired?
I often feel sleepy after I have bread, sometimes when I have a sandwich for lunch I could easily curl up and go to sleep? Could I be gluten intolerant? Thank you, Amy.
Hi Amy. If you feel tired after eating bread specifically, chances are you’re responding to changes in blood sugar or brain chemistry caused by higher levels of insulin.
Gluten intolerance could also be a part of the response. However, many different factors have an influence.
Wheat, rye, oats and barley contain a type of protein called gluten. Some people can’t digest it fully, so they experience symptoms after eating glutencontaining foods. Bloating and diarrhoea are frequent side effects, but lethargy and brain fog are also symptoms commonly associated with gluten intolerance.
If you think gluten is a problem for you, I encourage you to talk to a qualified health professional.
Both genetic and environmental factors play a part in the development of coeliac disease.
It is estimated that in New Zealand coeliac disease affects up to 1 in 100 of the general population but many of these people will be undiagnosed. New Zealanders of Celtic origins are at the greatest risk of developing the condition.
The average age of diagnosis of coeliac disease is approximately 40 years but it can occur at any age. It is possible that a major life event such as pregnancy, infection, serious emotional stress and surgery may activate the condition particularly in genetically pre-disposed individuals. If you suspect coeliac disease I encourage you to consult your GP. Despite having a very healthy diet I suffer with brittle and broken nails. I would appreciate your reply. Thanking you, Bev.
Hi Bev. There a number of reasons nutritionally why our nails may become brittle. It can be due to poor digestive function – often due to poor stomach acid production (commonly due to stress). This may mean that you eat well but Email your questions for Dr Libby to ask.drlibby@fairfaxmedia.co.nz. Please note, only a selection of questions can be answered. don’t absorb the nutrients effectively.
Having apple cider vinegar to start the day can assist with this. Concave nails (like the inside of a spoon), may be caused by low iron levels, or iron deficiency-anaemia. Iron helps form haemoglobin, a molecule that helps distribute red blood cells loaded with oxygen to your nail matrix. Brittle nails can also be a sign that you need more minerals in your diet, such as calcium, magnesium and/or zinc; or that the thyroid gland needs support.
Repeated wetting and drying of the fingernails (this occurs when washing up without gloves) can also be the cause of nail damage, this tends to make them dry and brittle.
This is often worse in low humidity and in the winter. And lastly, nail polish can be damaging to nail health particularly when left on for long periods of time.