Menstruation And Celiac

[tempurachic]

Is there any one else out there who has celiac symptoms during their period when eating gluten free?

I've noticed for a while now that during my period and about three days prior, when i eat a meal that is gluten free my stomach bloats up like it does if I eat gluten. What I've finally started to do is simply eat small small amounts of food during this time. It's not the end of the world but i wonder if any one else can relate to this? Sometimes the pain gets so bad that I take Vicodin. I feel bad that I take the Vicodin but on the other hand I don't care because it helps me get through the pain when I can't lie down and sleep or rest.

My husband is encouraging me to go the doctors and ask about my celiac symptoms during my period. I don't really see the point though. The doctor usually tells me to do what works for me but I would like to know WHY this happens.

Thanks in advance to any one who can give me any bits of insight.

anna

[Lux]

Hi Anna,

I'm sorry that I can't offer an explanation for this, but I can relate to how you're feeling. The exact same thing has been happening to me, right before I get my period. Luckily, in my case, it tends to peeter out by the time I actually get it, but all the same, I end up feeling awful for a good few days beforehand. I take Slippery Elm to sooth my stomach, and this usually works wonders. Perhaps you could try it?

*hugs*

xo

[BRUMI1968]

I've noticed I tend to get more bloated before my period - I mean intestinally bloated, not water retnetion. But it usually has a cause other than that - like I'm just less able to cope with little bugaboos (non-gluten ones I mean) near my period. I also tend to get a tender tummy during that time, though I've also noticed that seasonal allergies to tree pollen seem to be triggering a tense stomach. Go figure. Good luck.

p.s. I did read somewhere (Ann Marie Colbin actually) that if we ladies refrain from eating the reproductive byproducts of other animals (milk, eggs, etc.), that our periods might improve. Worked a bit for me, though not thoroughly.

[Robink]

I've noticed I tend to get more bloated before my period - I mean intestinally bloated, not water retnetion. But it usually has a cause other than that - like I'm just less able to cope with little bugaboos (non-gluten ones I mean) near my period. I also tend to get a tender tummy during that time, though I've also noticed that seasonal allergies to tree pollen seem to be triggering a tense stomach. Go figure. Good luck.

p.s. I did read somewhere (Ann Marie Colbin actually) that if we ladies refrain from eating the reproductive byproducts of other animals (milk, eggs, etc.), that our periods might improve. Worked a bit for me, though not thoroughly.

I've been a member here for a total of 30 seconds and I have no idea how to navigate through here, but, I did come here and all I can say is WOW!!! In your signature line you have done away with so many things, how inspiring. I don't know if I'll ever get back to this post, but, would love to hear how this is possible. Gluten free and Caesin free is what I'm shooting for, wow, in any case, thank you for the inspiration. Robin Kilpatrick

[ksymonds84]

I don't have an explanation either but I too feel glutened when on my period. The big D mostly but I've been gluten free for 3 1/2 months and during all my periods I feel glutened. Maybe next month will be better? At least that's what I keep telling myself Hope yours gets better too!

[April in KC]

Hi Anna,

I went gluten free a little over a year ago. Prior to going gluten-free, my symptoms included mouth sores and dermatitis herpetiformis (plus lots of other symptoms). After gluten-free, I noticed that my DH rash and mouth sores would come back every month during my period. This continued for several months, but things did gradually get better after many months. I don't know why - but I have a theory that hormone fluctuations did activate some of the antibodies that remained in my system. Over the course of a year, as my overall level of gluten antibodies fell and I healed up completely, I noticed this less and less. I still have a half day or so of symptoms around that time, but not bad at all now. For example, my elbows get a little itchy, but they don't break out in a rash.

Just one of those Celiac things, I guess.

April

[2kids4me]

The symptoms you have are related to hormones and the menstrual cycle itself. Diet definitely plays role but many of these symptoms happen to all women not just celiac women. I found this site and some info that may help. I noticed one product they say to avoid is wheat - not a problem for anyone on this board!

Hope this info may help provide some relief.

Sandy

Cramps and Other Sensations

Women can experience a variety of sensations before, during or after their menses. Common complaints include backache, pain in the inner thighs, bloating, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headaches, breast tenderness, irritability, and other mood changes. Women also experience positive sensations such as relief, release, euphoria, new beginning, invigoration, connection with nature, creative energy, exhilaration, increased sex drive and more intense orgasms.

Uterine cramping is one of the most common uncomfortable sensations women may have during menstruation. There are two kinds of cramping. Spasmodic cramping is probably caused by prostaglandins, chemicals that affect muscle tension. Some prostaglandins cause relaxation, and some cause constriction. A diet high in linoleic and liblenic acids, found in vegetables and fish, increases the prostaglandins for aiding muscle relaxation.

Congestive cramping causes the body to retain fluids and salt. To counter congestive cramping, avoid wheat and dairy products, alcohol, caffeine, and refined sugar.

Natural options to alleviate cramping:

Increase exercise. This will improve blood and oxygen circulation throughout the body, including the pelvis.

Try not using tampons. Many women find tampons increase cramping. Don't select an IUD (intrauterine device) as your birth control method.

Avoid red meat, refined sugars, milk, and fatty foods.

Eat lots of fresh vegetables, whole grains (especially if you experience constipation or indigestion), nuts, seeds and fruit.

Avoid caffeine. It constricts blood vessels and increases tension.

Meditate, get a massage.

Have an orgasm (alone or with a partner).

Drink ginger root tea (especially if you experience fatigue).

Put cayenne pepper on food. It is a vasodilator and improves circulation.

Breathe deeply, relax, notice where you hold tension in your body and let it go.

Ovarian Kung Fu alleviates or even eliminates menstrual cramps and PMS, it also ensures smooth transition through menopause

Take time for yourself!

Open Original Shared Link

PS - I have NO idea what Ovarian Kung Fu is. I do not like spicy/hot foods so have not tried cayenne pepper....maybe it distracts you from your menstrual symptoms because you focus on the burning sensation in your mouth!