Accidently Gluten(ed)?
You have been so careful, asked all the right questions, looked at all the labels to ensure you were remaining true to your gluten-free self, and then it happens.
Belly bloat, pains in your stomach, maybe a headache, or a rash becomes visible. You were careful, but then realize something snuck in and that something is gluten.
My dear, I’m sorry to say, you have been ‘Glutened’!
Gluten Remedies
Gluten hides in so many places that it’s difficult to ensure you are completely gluten safe, unless you live in a controlled environment. Here you can see just some areas that gluten hides.
Many of us like to travel and try new experiences, with new foods, so there needs to be better options than simply hiding from gluten…and there are!
Although there’s no magical pill or elixir that will cure gluten sensitivity or the reactions to ingesting gluten into your system, there are, however, some options that may reduce the havoc on your body.
Flush Gluten Out
As soon as you realize that you have accidentally digested gluten, the first step is to flush it out of your system as efficiently as possible. Below are some steps that will help ‘move’ things along and out.
Water
Drinking water will not only help prevent dehydration but it helps flush out toxins and keep things moving through your digestive system. Drink plenty of water and consider drinking warm-to-hot water to help further relax your body.
Digestive Enzymes
Did you know your saliva has natural digestive enzymes? These enzymes (lactase, protease, and amylase) can help break down the food you eat, including gluten and other complex carbohydrates.
Increasing these enzymes after exposure can help you process gluten through your body quicker and potentially reduce symptoms: gluten bloat, stomach aches, diarrhea, and constipation. For more info, check out this article.
Some natural options are Raw Honey, Sauerkraut, Bananas, and Papaya.
An over-the-counter (OTC) option I like, that isn’t as expensive as some of the crazy OTC options is Dr. Formulated Enzymes
Active Charcoal
Activated charcoal can help absorb toxins in your body and is sometimes used to treat patients exposed to poisons. It helps the body flush toxins and other unwanted substances out and can reduce inflammation in your gut.
It is important to note that activated charcoal can also absorb medication, so it should be taken at least two hours before or after taking other medications.
There are no natural sources of activated charcoal as it’s a manufactured combination.
Options to purchase activated charcoal OTC are available at many pharmacies and online. Keep in mind that it’s charcoal and has a dark black color, so could lead to some color showing up in other areas…ummm like your mouth or poop. (Yeah, I said it)
This is one I travel with and consume as soon as I realize I’ve accidentally digested something with gluten in it. In case it’s helpful, the one I use that has helped me is Bulletproof Coconut Charcoal
Soothe Yourself
Herbal Tea
Not only does tea comfort your soul, but it’s a great way to comfort your belly.
Certain herbs like peppermint and chamomile can soothe the digestive system and alleviate symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain.
Dandelion tea is also great for flushing out your system, as it’s a natural diuretic.
Add a little raw honey to your tea and that will further your digestion, as mentioned above in Digestive Enzymes above.
Ginger
A great way to help with bloating or gas, as well as overall digestion, is by incorporating ginger into your diet. I often slice it up and put it in boiling water to drink, like a cup of tea.
I drink warm ginger and lemon water every morning before coffee to help rehydrate my body and settle my stomach.
Note: If your tummy is sensitive or a little upset, take it easy on the lemon, as the acidity could bother you.
Exercise/Movement
I know you may not want to hear this, especially if you are feeling the uncomfortable symptoms of gluten, but moving your body does help.
Doing some yoga, light strength training, or a short walk, will help get things moving inside and relieve some of the pressure. I would stay close to home, just in case.
Looking for some yoga inspiration: Try ‘Yoga with Adriene’. She has many videos supporting digestion and I love all of her videos. Here’s one of hers to help calm your belly. Yoga for Gut Health
Rest
Your body is going through a lot now that it’s reacting to gluten getting into your system. It’s trying to heal you naturally and that takes extra energy, similar to when you have a cold.
Take it easy on yourself and get some extra sleep. Rest with a good book or show, or take some time for meditation to calm your body and mind.
The key thing is to listen to what your body needs and help your body recover by reducing stress on it, as that can also exacerbate digestive issues.
Heal Your Gut
Marshmallow Root
Not the same as those delicious treats that bind the chocolate and graham crackers together for our smores, the marshmallow root is from a plant native to some parts of Europe and Africa.
It has been known to reduce inflammation and help coat the inside of the stomach. Marshmallow root can be found in pill form at many pharmacies and online.
Probiotics
Taking a probiotic supplement can help restore the balance of your gut bacteria and alleviate some symptoms. I recommend you take this daily to ensure a healthy gut.
The one I use that has helped me is Dr. Formulated Probiotics
Gluten Detox Note
Remember to be easy on yourself and your tummy during this time. Try to stay away from processed foods, move your body in an easy way, and make yourself as comfortable as possible during this time. Maybe relax with a good show, some peppermint tea, and go to bed early.
Whatever you do, please feel better and take care of yourself!
Hope you found this helpful! If you have any questions or blog requests, please send them my way and I will do my best to cover them.
Don’t forget to join my newsletter and learn about new articles as they come!
This blog may contain affiliate links and although a small commission may be received for some products, I’m only linking to products I use and enjoy. To ensure all bases are covered, including Amazon’s disclosure as well since, well let’s be honest, I practically live on Amazon.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases
Pingback: Discovering I'm Gluten-Free Me - What the heck...GF!
Pingback: Gluten-Free Alcohol Beverages - What the heck...GF!
Pingback: Sneaky Gluten - What the heck...GF!