What to know:
No matter how diligent you are about avoiding gluten sometimes getting “glutened” just happens. Firstly, identify if you have experienced a major glutening (sourced from eating large quantities of gluten) or a minor glutening (sourced from cross-contamination or very small amounts of gluten). Second, listen to your body. Symptoms of getting “glutened” vary from person to person, and the quantity of gluten consumed. Symptoms can include, but are not limited too: diarrhea, constipation, reflux, bloating, stomach cramping, headache and fatigue. Your symptoms can come in any combination. Look for patterns within your symptoms upon occurrence to help identify if you’re feeling ill due to gluten. Source: Anderson, Jane. “What Does It Feel Like When You Get Glutened?” Edited by Emmy Ludwig, Verywell Health, Verywell Health, 12 Nov. 2019, www.verywellhealth.com/what-does-it-feel-like-when-you-get-glutened-562469.
How to feel better:
So after getting “glutened” and identifying your symptoms, the next question is how to feel better? As I said above, symptoms can and will vary. My go-to method of feeling better involves getting as comfortable as possible. If I have time, I will take a relaxing bath in some eucalyptus epsom salts or hot shower. I then change into my favorite sweatshirt and sweatpants combination; I never want to wear anything tight. Once i’m dressed I make myself a mug of of peppermint tea. Peppermint tea will soothe the stomach and allow for some relief. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water. From here, just rest. Getting “glutened” puts the body under an immense amount of stress. There is no shame in taking time to yourself to rest and allowing yourself to recover mentally and physically. In your recovery time you could consider taking a nap, watching your favorite show, or participating in a short mindful meditation. This will allow you to focus inward, and relax. Some of my favorite guided meditations can be found in the app called “Headspace.” The guides are very positive and create a relaxing environment. The focus of the meditation is to be present within yourself, in a non-judgmental manner. I find this relaxing and non-judgmental environment helpful after getting “glutened” as it puts me in a more positive frame of mind, and allows me to recovery fully in mind and then body. It should be noted that don’t have endorsement contracts with any of the apps, restaurants, brands, etc. that I list. I just want to be as honest as possible with what works for me and my family, so I can help and inspire my fellow gluten free foodies.
Until next time,
Brynn
