Stomach pains is one of the most common symptoms of celiac disease.

Stomach pains is one of the most common symptoms reported by people with celiac disease. Just hours after consuming gluten, a person with celiac disease may notice the onset of stomach pains — a throbbing, bloating feeling that doesn’t seem to go away. So, what exactly triggers stomach pains such as this? And is there any way to treat and prevent these pains? To learn the answers to these questions and more, keep reading.

Why Celiac Disease Causes Stomach Pains

To understand the link between stomach pains and celiac disease, you must first look at the mechanism of celiac disease. Celiac disease is classified as an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the small intestines when gluten is present, viewing the sticky grain-based protein as a foreign invader.

This attack may cause gas, bloating, abdominal cramps and other related symptoms, all of which contribute to the general pain and discomfort the individual feels after consuming gluten. For instance, the immune system’s attack on the small intestines may trigger an excess production of gas, and this gas causes pain as it makes its way through the digestive system.

How To Prevent Stomach Pains

The only foil-proof way for people with celiac disease to prevent stomach pains is to eliminate gluten from their diet. When a person with celiac disease eliminates all forms of gluten from his or her diet, there’s no longer a catalyst present to trigger the adverse reactions mentioned above; thus, the individual will no longer experience stomach pains related to the disease.

You can also alleviate some of the stomach pains and discomfort associated with celiac disease by drinking plenty of water. It’s estimated that roughly 75% of Americans live in a constant state of dehydration. While the symptoms of early dehydration are mild, it can still magnify the intensity of stomach pains and abdominal cramps associated with celiac disease. This is why it’s important to drink plenty of water if you have celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or gluten sensitivity.

How much should you be drinking? Some people follow the eight, 8-ounce glasses of water per day rule, but this isn’t always accurate. Listen to your body and drink when you’re thirsty. If you spent a lot of time outdoors and/or performing physically-intense activities, you should drink more to stay hydrated.

How do you manage celiac disease stomach pains? Let us know in the comments section below!