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Gaining Weight Post-diagnosis? Also, Hair Loss?

knav76

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knav76 Newbie
knav76
Posted

I was diagnosed with Celiac disease about 2 months ago and have been 99% gluten-free for about a month and a half. I have always been on the thin side, but it seems like since going gluten-free I have been gaining weight. According to my doctor, I have gained 4 pounds in a month.

Is this normal? Is this a sign that I was malnourished and not properly absorbing fats and nutrients before I was diagnosed?

Also, since about a month prior to my diagnosis, I started losing hair and it has not let up. I have very thick hair, so it's not too noticeable, but I worry that if it keeps up it will be! Is THIS normal?

Thanks very much. This forum helps me feel SO much better knowing I am not alone!

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ravenwoodglass Mentor
ravenwoodglass
Posted

I think your doctor is right about the weight gain, as you heal you will be absorbing more from your food and this will help you put a bit of weight on. Not a bad thing if you have always been a bit underweight. Also many of the specialty gluten free foods are very high in carbs and calories and that can also contribute if you are eating a lot of them.

Now on to the hairloss. I lost a lot of hair before celiac was found, and I still lose hair for a week or two if I get glutened or soyed. My hair loss continued for a while after diagnosis, along with the itchiness, (I have DH). It didnt stop until I had a duh moment and checked my shampoos and toiletries. Gluten was in almost every personal care product I used. The loss finally stopped when I switched to gluten free shampoos and such. I also take a gluten-free vitamin for my hair and skin which seems to help also.

draeko Apprentice
draeko
Posted

Hi I have the same issues. I have gained a total of 6 lbs but it comes and it goes depending on being glutened or not! I have hair loss also and trying to figure out if it is due to a lack of vitamine that is still not being absorbed. Are you feeling better?

knav76 Newbie
knav76
Posted
  • Author

Physically, since going gluten-free, I am feeling much better. My digestive issues and fatigue have let up almost entirely. But the weight gain and hair loss continue. I am going to try and switch my shampoo and conditioner -- does anyone know of any?

Hi I have the same issues. I have gained a total of 6 lbs but it comes and it goes depending on being glutened or not! I have hair loss also and trying to figure out if it is due to a lack of vitamine that is still not being absorbed. Are you feeling better?
ravenwoodglass Mentor
ravenwoodglass
Posted

I can take a while for the antibody reaction to leave which for many of us plays a part in the hair loss. Try and be patient although I know how hard that is. Suave will clearly label gluten and Dove will also. I prefer the Dove but used to use Giovanni products but had to stop because of a soy allergy. A lot of people like those also. If you ask about brands on the products section many will most likely know of others.

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      Thank you so very much Scott.  Just having someone understand my situation is so very helpful.  If I have one more family member ask me how my little itchy skin thing is going and can't you just take a pill and it will go away and just a little bit of gluten can't hurt you!!!! I think I will scream!!
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