The Complexity of Gluten Allergies: Why Modern Bread May Not Be as Safe as You Think

Understanding Gluten Allergies

Gluten allergies can be a confusing topic, especially since many people assume that if humans have been eating bread for millennia, they should be fine today. However, there are several factors that complicate this assumption and may explain why some individuals are experiencing gluten-related issues.

Coeliac’s Disease and FODMAP Sensitivity

Coeliac’s disease can manifest at any age, and it is crucial to be tested if you suspect you may have it. Contrary to popular belief, most individuals who self-diagnose with non-coeliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) are not actually sensitive to gluten but to a group of poorly digested carbohydrates known as FODMAPs. One FODMAP, fructans, is particularly common in wheat, leading to symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhoea—symptoms often associated with coeliac disease.

For example, I developed my sensitivity to FODMAPs when I was in my mid-50s, highlighting that such sensitivities can develop at any point in life, even decades after exposure to seemingly harmless foods.

Modern Foods and Environmental Stressors

The rapid evolution of our food and the substances we consume has led to significant changes in how our bodies react. Environmental factors, including the soil quality, contaminated water, environmental stressors such as scents, and the overwhelming exposure to synthetic substances, may contribute to the development of gluten sensitivities and related health issues.

One theory is that our bodies are simply not adapted to these changes, leading to a misalignment between what we consume and what our bodies can process efficiently. This rapid shift is particularly concerning, as even 100 years ago, people were not suffering from the same level of health issues that we see today.

Development of Intolerances and Allergies

Intolerances and allergies are not the same, and both can develop at any time. It is crucial to determine which you are dealing with, as there are specific tests to help identify the nature of your issue.

Foods can develop intolerances over time, especially if they are consumed frequently. This is why individuals who eat the same foods regularly may develop allergies to those foods. Conversely, individuals who are raised in highly sanitized environments and do not develop normal immune responses may become more prone to allergies.

Modern Bread and Its Impact on Health

Modern bread production methods have changed significantly over the years. For instance, if we were to consume the bread made 4,000 years ago, we would likely not experience the same health issues we do today. Back then, people consumed wheat only occasionally and in small quantities, whereas today, it is a staple food consumed several times a day.

Wheat has also been bred to contain much more gluten, which is the component that makes bread doughy and allows it to rise. In today's commercial bread-making process, yeast is often omitted to save time and reduce costs. This omission means that the yeast, which would have broken down some of the ingredients, is no longer present, leading to a higher content of difficult-to-digest components.

Moreover, the way modern bread is made means that the ingredients that would have been naturally reduced by the yeast are not being affected in the same way. As a result, individuals consuming modern bread are ingesting substances that may not be fully digested, leading to digestive issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the complexity of gluten allergies cannot be simplified by the notion that if our ancestors ate bread, we should be fine. Modern bread-making practices, changes in our environment, and the rapid evolution of our food sources have all contributed to the development of these issues. If you suspect you have a gluten sensitivity, consulting a healthcare provider and undergoing appropriate tests can help you understand your specific condition.

Understanding the root causes of your gluten-related issues can empower you to make informed decisions about your diet and improve your overall health. As we continue to evolve, it is important to stay aware of the changes in our food and the impact they have on our bodies.