Historically, gluten intolerance testing has missed the mark. A common issue patients face is when they know that they have a problem with wheat, but their doctors run the standard blood profile and one of two things happens:
1. IgA anti-transglutaminase or anti-endomysial antibodies come back negative. (In other words, the test did not find antibodies for gluten intolerance.)
2. IgA anti-transglutaminase or anti-endomysial antibodies come back negative, and anti-gliadin, or anti-deamidated gliadin antibodies, come back positive, with the doctor telling the patient that “it’s OK to eat wheat because the tissue antibodies are negative.” (One test is confirming you have a gluten intolerance, but the other test does not support it.)
Understandably, the patient may be left in a state of confusion. After all, they don’t WANT to give up wheat. They believe it’s a part of a staple diet in life, and who wants to be denied of anything?
When your doctor says it’s OK to eat something but you know you don’t feel as well when you eat it, go with what your body is telling you.
Do you feel better off gluten than on it? It turns out that up to 75% of patients with persistent symptoms will improve when put on a ‘‘no detectable gluten’’ diet. This entails a strict adherence to the elimination of gluten from your diet.
Many people will try to rationalize these symptoms by saying “Oh well, it must be the stress of my life making me feel bad” and then proceed to order their bagel. That’s the dilemma. Where’s the problem? The problem is the test.
The tests are negative, yet the person feels better when they do not eat gluten. Many studies have validated the sensitivity and specificity using anti-endomysial and/or anti-transglutaminase antibody testing to identify celiac disease. Since the science says these tests for gluten intolerance are very, very accurate, there shouldn’t be an issue. Right?
In reality, it’s a different situation. The definition of celiac disease requires total villous atrophy – not partial villous atrophy, not increased inflammation without any visible atrophy yet. Therefore, when researchers look at populations who have celiac disease confirmed by biopsy and investigate how accurate the blood tests are, they come up with percentages above 95% because they’re only including people who have total villous atrophy in their study group.
What is villous atrophy, exactly? ‘Villous’ refers to that ‘shag carpeting’ on the inside of your small intestines. Villi are little tentacles that stick up, just like a rug. Each little villus provides even more surface area to absorb nutrients. Now, imagine a worn down carpet that no longer pops back up after you vacuum. This is what is called atrophy, in which those cells start degenerating. As a result, they are unable to fully absorb the nutrients you are eating. Just like trying to vacuum shag carpeting that is forever pressed down, you can’t get in between those carpet fibers. And neither can the nutrients get in to be properly absorbed. Thus, before you get the official diagnosis of celiac disease, you have to already have destroyed the villi.
If we were to expand the definition of celiac disease to include those with partial villous atrophy, or include those whom as of yet just show the mechanism that wears down the villi (increased intraepithelial lymphocytes), then the sensitivity and specificity of anti-endomysial or anti-transglutaminase goes down, in some studies to as low as 27-32%. But what if I told you that for every gluten-sensitive patient with the symptoms of enteropathy, there are 8 with no GI symptoms?
Enteropathy is just a sophisticated word for a disease of the intestines. For every person who is gluten intolerant that has symptoms of enteropathy, EIGHT do not have symptoms in that area.
Strangely, before you can confirm someone has a diagnosis of celiac, the precursors leading up to it are ignored. The diagnosis is looked at in black and white – you either have it, or you don’t. Meanwhile, damage is continually being incurred until it reaches the level of diagnosis. Is it just me, or does this seem illogical? Do we want to base our health guidance and decisions on blood tests that are limited to identifying celiac disease at its end stage of intestinal deterioration? Or do we want to include gluten intolerance testing, which has a much bigger picture in mind and looks to identify gluten sensitivity inside and outside the intestines at earlier stages?
The vast majority of research on a reaction or a sensitivity to wheat has only been looking at celiac disease. So many doctors, because of the training they underwent 10 or 20 years ago, still believe that if you don’t have celiac disease, you don’t have a problem with wheat.
In Italy, they have 34 centers that are designated as gluten-related disorder centers by the government. If you get a diagnosis of a gluten-related disorder, or any wheat-related disorder, then your food bills are a tax deduction. People will even go to one of these 34 centers to see if they have a problem with wheat because of tax benefits associated with a diagnosis. What they report is that of all of the 15,000 people they looked at in their study, only 7% of them have celiac disease; 93% of them have non-celiac wheat sensitivity.
Non-celiac wheat sensitivity is as dangerous or even more dangerous than celiac. Antibodies to your own tissue (called autoimmune antibodies) from a wheat allergy are more prevalent in non-celiac wheat sensitivity than in celiac disease – that means they may be in your brain, in your lungs, or in your heart.
So the initial training that doctors receive taught them that if you don’t have celiac disease, you don’t have a problem. Of course, we now know that’s not true.
If we recognize the now well-known fact that gluten sensitivity may manifest as celiac disease, or it may manifest outside of the intestines, one of the ways of expanding our diagnostic range is to focus on whether or not our immune system is saying that gluten is a problem. We might know where the problem is manifesting, or we might not. But if our immune system is saying “We’ve got a problem here”, it is likely worth listening to.
Mortality in celiac patients is highest (6x higher) in those not adherent to a gluten-free diet. This makes early identification a potentially life-threatening situation.
While your neighborhood doctor may not be up to speed with the latest in testing for gluten intolerance, it does exist. You just need to know what to ask for:
Cyrex labs also offers the Array 3X, which expands its focus to 12 different peptides of gluten – not just gliadin. Now, another diagnostic tool has been added to your doctor’s repertoire assisting in accurately identifying gluten sensitivity with or without the serious end-stage of tissue destruction – total villous atrophy. Print the information and take this to your healthcare practitioner.
Many people are surprised to learn that while they believe they are gluten-free, they may in fact be exposing themselves to gluten through daily hidden dangers like medications or lipstick.
A 30-minute consultation with our Clinical Services team is included with the purchase of the Wheat Zoomer test to help you interpret and understand test results that you can also share with your local doctor.
If you suspect you have gluten sensitivity, you can locate a Certified Gluten-Free Practitioner (CGP) near you on our website. If you do not have a practitioner to order this gluten intolerance test, contact your nearby CGP or click here for more information about our clinical service and lab test offered through Thedr
Taking a gluten intolerance test may be one piece of your treatment plan. Each person’s health history is looked at in its entirety – your body tells a story unique to you! As you learn how to read the tale your body has been telling, you can begin to fill in those gaps and better understand your own personal health mystery.
It is my personal prayer that as a result of this expanded gluten intolerance test, we will no longer miss those with earlier stages of celiac disease and gluten sensitivity.
Coriolus Versicolor, a remarkable mushroom, is esteemed for its potential to contribute to overall wellness. Known for its immune-supporting properties, Coriolus Versicolor may help strengthen the body’s natural defenses. This extraordinary mushroom has also been associated with promoting healthy energy levels, supporting digestion, and fostering vitality.
Fo Ti, a revered Chinese herb also known as He Shou Wu, is valued for its potential to support overall wellness. Traditionally used for promoting vitality and longevity, Fo Ti may contribute to maintaining healthy energy levels, cognitive function, and immune system performance. This remarkable herb has also been associated with supporting liver and kidney health, as well as fostering a sense of overall balance
Agave, a versatile desert plant native to the Americas, is recognized for its potential to support overall wellness. Rich in natural fibers and low-glycemic sweeteners, Agave may contribute to maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, digestive health, and providing a natural alternative to refined sugars.
Maral Root, a potent adaptogenic herb native to Siberia, is celebrated for its potential to contribute to overall well-being. Known for helping the body manage stress and maintain balance, Maral Root may also promote healthy energy levels, endurance, and cognitive function. This exceptional herb has been associated with supporting the immune system, fostering vitality, and enhancing physical performance.
NotoGinseng, a distinct variety of Panax ginseng native to the Changbai Mountains, is esteemed for its potential to contribute to overall well-being. Renowned for its adaptogenic properties, Noto Ginseng may help the body manage stress and maintain balance. This exceptional herb has been linked to supporting cognitive function, promoting healthy energy levels, and boosting immune system performance.
Baicalin, a potent bioflavonoid derived from the Scutellaria baicalensis plant, is appreciated for its potential to promote overall wellness. With its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Baicalin may help protect cells from oxidative stress and maintain a balanced response to inflammation. This remarkable compound has been associated with supporting liver health, promoting cardiovascular function, and fostering a sense of vitality.
Holy Basil has been found to protect organs and tissues against chemical stress from industrial pollutants and heavy metals, and physical stress from prolonged physical exertion. It has also been shown to counter metabolic stress through normalization of blood glucose, blood pressure and lipid levels.
Ashwagandha, a revered adaptogenic herb, is acclaimed for its potential to support overall well-being. Known for helping the body manage stress and maintain balance, Ashwagandha may also contribute to healthy energy levels and mental clarity. This remarkable herb has been associated with promoting relaxation, supporting the immune system, and fostering vitality.
Guarana, a powerful plant, is celebrated for its potential to support overall wellness. Rich in natural caffeine, Guarana may help promote mental alertness, focus, and healthy energy levels. This remarkable plant has also been associated with supporting endurance and enhancing physical performance.
Catuaba, a potent herb, is appreciated for its potential to contribute to overall well-being. Known for its adaptogenic qualities, Catuaba may help the body cope with stress and maintain balance. This remarkable herb has also been associated with promoting mental alertness, healthy energy levels, and fostering a sense of vitality.
Reishi Mushroom, a highly-regarded fungus, is esteemed for its potential to enhance overall wellness. With adaptogenic properties, Reishi Mushroom may help the body manage stress and maintain balance. This extraordinary mushroom has also been linked to promoting immune system support, healthy energy levels, and fostering a sense of calm and relaxation.
Astragalus Root, a powerful herb, is respected for its potential to contribute to overall well-being. Renowned for its immune-supporting properties, Astragalus Root may help fortify the body’s natural defenses. Additionally, this remarkable root has been associated with promoting healthy energy levels, heart health, and supporting the body’s ability to adapt to stress.
Asian Licorice Root, a versatile herb, is valued for its potential to support overall wellness. Known for its adaptogenic properties, it may help the body cope with stress and maintain balance. This remarkable root has also been linked to promoting healthy digestion, respiratory function, and supporting the immune system.
American Ginseng, a revered herb, is prized for its potential to contribute to overall well-being. With adaptogenic properties, it may assist the body in managing stress and maintaining harmony. American Ginseng has also been associated with promoting mental alertness, healthy energy levels, and supporting the immune system.
Rhodiola Rosea, a robust herb, is admired for its potential to support overall wellness. As an adaptogen, Rhodiola Rosea may help the body cope with stress and maintain balance. This remarkable herb has been linked to promoting mental clarity, healthy energy levels, and increased endurance.
Peruvian Maca, a nutrient-packed root, is celebrated for its potential to enhance overall well-being. Known for its adaptogenic qualities, Maca may help the body manage stress and maintain balance. This powerful root has also been associated with promoting healthy energy levels, endurance, and supporting hormonal balance.
Schisandra Fruit, a unique berry, is renowned for its potential to contribute to overall wellness. Boasting adaptogenic properties, it may help the body adapt to stress and maintain equilibrium. Schisandra Fruit has also been linked to promoting healthy energy levels, mental clarity, and supporting the body’s natural defense
Acai, a nutrient-dense berry, is recognized for its potential to enhance overall well-being. Rich in antioxidants, Acai may help support the body’s defenses against environmental stressors, while promoting healthy energy levels and vitality.
Himalayan Goji, a nutrient-rich fruit, is valued for its potential contribution to overall wellness. This superfood is believed to support the immune system, promote healthy energy levels, and aid in maintaining balance within the body. With its antioxidant properties, Himalayan Goji may help protect cells from environmental stressors.
The main group of components in gotu kola is the triterpenes including asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that are shown to positively influence brain plasticity which means a much sharper you.
Best known as a neural tonic and memory enhancer this powerful herb increases cerebral blood flow and neurotransmitter modulation.
Healthy energy producer and one of the more researched and promising supplements. It upregulates fat metabolism at rest and during exercise. In recent years the consumption of Green Tea Extract has shown to help prevent lifestyle diseases like cardiovascular disease because of it’s preventative effects on chronic inflammation.
“Guaco” is Sun Horse Energy founder Dan Moriarty’s favorite herb, and the reason why he’s still alive. Traditionally, it’s a well-known herb for snake bites, scorpion stings and other venomous creatures. Guaco acts as a non-steroidal bronchodilator, meaning it opens up the airways without steroids. As a result of guaco opening up the airways, the alveoli (tiny air sacs in the lungs) are better able to accept oxygen transfer and get rid of carbon dioxide. In Brazil, Guaco syrup is one of the most popular herbal medicines used to treat the symptoms of asthmatic bronchitis, cough and hoarseness.
A traditional Native American herb, Osha is also known as “Bear Root”. Native Americans noticed that when bears emerged from hibernation, the first thing they did after being in a state of torpor for 4 months was not feast on salmon or drink water, but rather, dig up osha and eat it. Why? It decongests and wakes up the lungs. Native Americans who used Osha were able to run further, and treat their colds and congestion. Modern research studies suggest Osha may support the immune system by offering protective effects against oxidative damage.
I want to thank you for your existence. I want you to know that functional medicine has changed my life, well the life of my autistic son. So much so that I plan on taking the Functional Medicine Health Coach Certificate and work with my new friend who is now a Functional Medicine Doctor from the Institute of Functional Medicine and spread the word on GI testing and how finding the underlying issues will help eliminate autistic traits.
I hope to be able to meet you one day so I can share this great news with others. Changing my son’s diet has changed him. Food is medicine!! By the way, I’m cooking my rutabaga. I’m Italian and never grew up with these. With love.
Good morning Dr. Tom, Would just like to say thank you! This time last year I was going through a hell of a time with my gut. Terrible indigestion on a regular basis, feeling as if I had eaten a boulder and the tiredness was doing my heed (scottish for head) in! With two young girls being tired is not an option!
I went to the doctors on a number of occasions and they decided to prescribe omeprazole to mask the problem, sorry help my problem. I decided taking these drugs was not an option for me! So I started googling the life out of it!! Low and behold you started popping up!! Oh and Gluten intolerance!
Your advice has been second to none! You have in my case really simplified what gluten does to my body and now that I have cut it out (which as it appears in lots of foods, some I can’t understand) I have found that my symptoms very quickly reduced and now I’m a year down the line they have gone for the vast majority of the time!! For that I’m truly grateful. I now follow you on YouTube and Instagram, which continues to educate me and the importance of gut health. I look forward to your future advice. Yours faithfully,
A Chinese medicine tonic, Black Ant is used to support energy levels. (In traditional Chinese medicine, Black Ant is given to increase vital Qi.) Research studies demonstrate that Black Ant supports the function of the thymus gland, which plays a crucial role in the immune system, producing and activating lymphocytes.
This well known adaptogen has been proven to reduce cardiovascular stress, lower and stabilize blood sugar to healthy levels, and encourages a more efficient lipid metabolism.
Many studies have shown that pine bark possesses anti-aging properties. It’s very similar in nature to the well-known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, resveratrol, which is abundant in red wine and grapes. Pine bark has a proven beneficial effect on lipids, the cardiovascular and immune systems.
A very yummy and medicinal mushroom is a well established candidate for brain and nerve health because it triggers neurite outgrowth and regenerates damaged nerves. Lions Mane has been extensively studied for its neuro-health properties.
This is an enzyme/protein that speeds up biochemical reactions and helps to prevent and dissolve the formations of blood clots (thrombi); addresses the problem of blood hyperviscosity, thereby preventing thick and sticky blood, which is not conducive to overall cardiovascular health.
Referred to as the women’s ultimate power herb, by some herbal enthusiasts. Used in India for at least 3,000 years, Shatavari, is structurally similar to estrogen produced within the body. Some researchers have concluded shatavari can be a highly effective alternative to synthetic hormone replacement therapy for peri- and menopausal women.
Improve female libido, mitigate PMS, reproductive health
Increase para-sympathetic nervous activity, mitigate osteoporosis, improve libido, enhance smooth muscle tissue function
Enhance athletic performance, improve circulation, improve sexual performance, more efficient rates of protein synthesis
Cordyceps, a genus of mushroom, gained lots of attention after Chinese long-distance runners performed impressively at international competitions in the 1990s and early 2000s. Along with high-altitude training, supplementing with cordyceps was part of their intense training program. A research study concludes that cordyceps improves tolerance to high-intensity exercise after supplementation with it because the fungus is thought to increase blood flow, enhance oxygen utilization; it also acts as an antioxidant. It also has powerful anti-tumor properties, the ability to regulate the endocrine system, enhance your immune function, and protect the kidneys, lung, liver, and other organs.
In recent decades, an extract of the leaves of the tree Ginkgo biloba L. has been used to improve memory in disorders like Dementia disorders that affect memory and intellectual functioning, and are caused primarily by Alzheimer’s disease and vascular disorders.
Jiaogulan, a versatile herb, is celebrated for its potential to support overall well-being. Known for its adaptogenic properties, Jiaogulan may help the body cope with stress and maintain balance. This remarkable herb has also been associated with promoting healthy energy levels, boosting endurance, and fostering a sense of calm and relaxation.
