Managing Non-Coeliac Gluten Sensitivity Through Pregnancy
Introduction:
Pregnancy is a time of significant physical and emotional changes, and managing one’s diet can play a crucial role in ensuring both maternal and foetal health. One condition that might affect dietary choices is Non-Coeliac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS). Although less well-known than coeliac disease, NCGS can also influence how you feel during your pregnancy. In fact, many women may not even be aware they have NCGS until they are pregnant. However, their history often includes signs such as short bouts of cystitis, irritable bowel disease (IBS), heartburn, eczema, idiopathic joint pain and not thought anything of it. They have managed to deal with this but when pregnant their body becomes more challenged and symptoms enhanced.
What is Non-Coeliac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)?:
NCGS is a condition where individuals experience symptoms similar to those of coeliac disease, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and fatigue, but without the autoimmune response to gluten found in coeliac disease. This makes it difficult to identify. It’s important to note that NCGS is still not fully understood, and its symptoms can overlap with other digestive issues, making it somewhat challenging to diagnose.
Diagnosis of NCGS is usually made when there is a reduction in symptoms and improvement in health with the removal of wheat and gluten based products from the diet. However, new research is suggesting that the high presence of amylase-trypsin inhibitors (ATI) could be the reason behind NCGS.
Amylase and trypsin are both digestive enzymes that break down sugars and proteins, respectively so that they can be absorbed properly. It is thought that ATIs which inhibit these two enzymes cause small intestinal and colonic inflammation which results in gut leakage. Food moving outside the gut into the abdomen causes further inflammation which can result in systemic effect.
Recognising the Symptoms:
If you’re pregnant and notice discomfort after eating gluten-containing foods like wheat, barley, and rye, but have tested negative for coeliac disease, you might be experiencing NCGS. Common symptoms include:
Digestive discomfort or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)-like symptoms, heartburn, etc
Fatigue
Headaches or a feeling of brain fog
Skin issues such as rashes or eczema
Hands and feet swelling
Backache
Overall tightness in your body
It’s important to listen to your body and note any patterns that emerge in relation to your diet.
“Navigating your health during pregnancy isn’t just about avoiding discomfort—it’s about creating a sanctuary of wellbeing for both you and your baby.”
Predisposing factors contributing to NCGS:
Obesity
Type 2 Diabetes or people with Insulin Intolerance
Pre-existing bowel conditions i.e. IBS
Chronic cystitis
Regularly eat a high carbohydrate diet – especially breads
Suffer with eczema, rhinitis or other allergic conditions
Drink alcohol
High levels of stress & Raised cholesterol levels
Poor sleeping habits
Idiopathic joint pain, regular headaches
Fertility treatments (NB), been on the pill or other hormone replacements
Personal Client Story:
In all my 30-years of working with pregnant women, I have come to realised that because of our busy lifestyle eating foods on the go, many pregnant women don’t have a understanding of the basic understanding of nutrition.
One of my pregnant clients was starting to show signs of NCGS. Her fingers we beginning to swell a little, her rings getting that bit too tight and her feet swollen. At this time she didn’t experience having much discomfort but I could see that there was less energy in her. She was normally very bubbly and moved around easily but now there was a slight sluggishness to her. We had done a diet appraisal when she started seeing me and she seemed to be following a good diet. I did however, suggest that she start having a gluten free diet and so, we set about how she could swap wheat based products for gluten free options and I also had her increased her water intake. Sometimes swelling can just be because the person isn’t taking enough water to the body to function properly. There is waste product build up which needs to be removed and excreted.
She seemed to understand what to do and so, I expected to see the swelling reduce when I saw her two weeks later but it had got slightly worse. She told me that she was following exactly what I had told her to do. I was a bit confused because this didn’t feel right. She was now having heartburn and feeling bloated and decidedly uncomfortable. On palpation there was an indication of gas buildup in the stomach and so, I asked again about the diet. She assured me that she was eating properly. I was confused so I asked her to bring her husband in next time, under the guise of having him learn some of the massage. In that session I asked the question again about the wheat and she categorically denied having any wheat when her husband piped up “What about all those biscuits that you have been having they are full of wheat?” She had totally not understood that her biscuits were wheat flour and had been having a right old feast.
Once she realised and we went though everything again she went completely wheat and gluten-free. The change was phenomenal within a week her discomfort, constipation, heartburn and swelling had completely gone. Her rings were loos again. I was pleased because her baby had dropped nicely into the pelvis and everything was now in place for a good birth which she had.
So, although most women will be fine during pregnancy and are not wheat or gluten sensitive because of our lifestyles too many women are suffering from a situation that can easily be avoided. This is the reason why it is so important to manage pregnancy well from before getting pregnant to well after the birth.
“Empowerment in pregnancy comes from understanding your body’s signals and embracing the support that guides you towards wellbeing.”
Managing Symptoms During Pregnancy:
Managing and potential issue in pregnancy always requires a holistic approach
1. Consult Your Healthcare Provider
Before making any dietary changes, especially during pregnancy, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help rule out coeliac disease with proper tests and guide you on safely managing your symptoms.
2. Trial a Gluten-Free Diet
If you and your healthcare provider suspect NCGS, a trial gluten-free diet might be recommended. This involves removing all sources of gluten from your diet to see if your symptoms improve. Remember, the key is to maintain a balanced diet that provides essential nutrients for you and your baby.
3. Focus on Nutrient-Rich Gluten-Free Foods
Opt for whole, naturally gluten-free foods such as:
Fruits and vegetables
Lean proteins like chicken, fish, and legumes
Whole grains that are gluten-free such as quinoa, rice, and corn
Dairy products, unless lactose intolerance is also a concern
4. Read Food Labels Carefully
Gluten can be hidden in many processed foods under names like malt, modified food starch, and hydrolyzed vegetable protein. Reading labels can help you avoid accidental gluten intake.
5. Digestive Enzymes
Digestive enzymes taken before a meal can help with the breakdown of the foods so that you digestive system doesn’t get inflamed. If you are reluctant to take products focus will be on strengthening you digestive system such as bone broth and also introducing natural enzymatic foods i.e. fermented foods such as kimchi, pickles, pineapple core, etc.
6. The Importance of Emotional and Mental Health
Living with dietary restrictions can be stressful, especially during pregnancy.
It’s vital to seek emotional support if you’re feeling overwhelmed
Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as meditation, dancing, walking can help
Connecting with support groups
Speaking with a therapist who understands your needs can be incredibly beneficial. Many women need to learn how to listen to their inner wisdom and act upon it using that deeper knowing. It can be hard to change our patterns Pregnancy coaching helps a mum learn to find those old outdated stories that make it difficult to change such as believing they can’t take time to rest, eat properly, put their needs first, be respected by medical staff, are powerless, etc., and change them. They get to do a complete RESET. Pregnancy coaching RESETS you back onto a new path forward so that you can navigate your pregnancy and birth with ease and grace.
“When managing NCGS, every step towards a tailored, gluten-free diet is a step towards reclaiming your peace and vitality.”
Conclusion:
Unleashing Ourselves into New Possibilities:
Navigating Non-Coeliac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS) during pregnancy can be challenging, but with the right approach and support, it’s possible to manage your symptoms and maintain a healthy pregnancy. By understanding the signs of NCGS and communicating openly with your healthcare provider, you can tailor a diet that supports both your health and that of your baby. Opting for a balanced, gluten-free diet rich in essential nutrients will not only alleviate symptoms but also contribute to your overall wellbeing.
Moreover, integrating mental and emotional health strategies is vital. Consider the story of one of my clients, a professional woman who was suffering with NCGS symptoms during pregnancy. Through tailored dietary adjustments and supportive counselling, she was able to reclaim her sense of control and wellbeing, ultimately creating a peaceful and healthy environment for herself and her baby.
It’s important to remember that you are not alone. Connecting with support groups, engaging in stress-relief activities, and maintaining open communication with your healthcare team are key steps towards managing NCGS during pregnancy. Embrace this journey with confidence and the support of those who understand your unique needs, ensuring a healthier path for you and your future child.
“Remember, the strength to manage your symptoms comes from not just the food you eat, but also from the supportive network that surrounds you.”
I have over 30 years of experience helping pregnant women. This is my purpose. From an esoteric perspective there are so many souls coming to reincarnate and evolve and they need to do this well in this lifetime and so, my job is to give them the best opportunity that I can by helping their mums.
If this resonates and you are ready I would love to support you on your journey. Book yourself in for a FREE introductory chat. In that session we can start exploring what you want and how I can help you to achieve that outcome. We need to know where are your potential blocks (your biggest gaps) and what is in season to work with right now. Timing is everything and pregnancy is a time when we can do magnificent work together to help you make the biggest difference for you in attaining your outcome.
Question:What is Non-Coeliac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)?
Answer: Non-Coeliac Gluten Sensitivity is a condition in which individuals experience symptoms similar to those of coeliac disease, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhoea, but without the autoimmune response to gluten that characterizes coeliac disease.
Question: How does NCGS differ from coeliac disease?
Answer: While both NCGS and coeliac disease involve sensitivity to gluten, coeliac disease involves an autoimmune response that damages the intestine. NCGS does not cause this kind of intestinal damage and is not associated with the antibodies typical of coeliac disease.
Question: Can NCGS affect pregnancy?
Answer: Yes, NCGS can affect pregnancy by contributing to symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal discomfort, and general malaise, which can complicate the management of pregnancy well-being. However, it does not directly affect the foetus like coeliac disease can when not managed properly.
Question: What should pregnant women with suspected NCGS do?
Answer: Pregnant women who suspect they have NCGS should consult with their healthcare provider for proper assessment and testing. Managing the diet by eliminating gluten may help alleviate symptoms, but it should be done under medical supervision to ensure nutritional needs are met during pregnancy.
Question: Are there risks associated with a gluten-free diet during pregnancy?
Answer: While a gluten-free diet can be nutritionally balanced, there is a risk of missing out on essential nutrients such as fibre, iron, and B vitamins, which are abundant in gluten-containing grains. Pregnant women on a gluten-free diet should work with a nutritionist to ensure they receive all necessary nutrients for a healthy pregnancy.
General FAQ
If you have any questions, feedback, or need further assistance, you can easily message me through the contact form on my website. I strive to respond promptly to all inquiries and look forward to connecting with you!
How can I message you?
If you have any questions, feedback, or need further assistance, you can easily message me through the contact form on my website. I strive to respond promptly to all inquiries and look forward to connecting with you!
What services do you offer?
As a Pregnancy and Infertility coach, I specialize in helping professional women to navigate the challenges they experience on their pregnancy journey. I help them reclaim back control by provide them with a safe, non-judgmental space where they can openly express their feelings, fears, frustrations and be empowered to confidently create a safe, nurturing and loving environment for themselves and their unborn child.
My passion lies in empowering women to effect sustainable, positive changes in their lives. To achieve this, I employ a diverse range of transformational tools that help in the release of trauma, PTSD, grief, and loss, particularly those stemming from their primary mother wound. Together, we embark on a journey of growth and healing, inspiring each individual to find solutions that ensure a healthier and more fulfilling pregnancy experience.
Can anyone benefit from your coaching programs?
Absolutely! While my specialization is in tailored to working with professional women who are focused on issues surrounding pregnancy the primary trauma that most women experience is a the collect mother wound. My coaching programs and healing books are designed to benefit any individual, especially women, seeking to overcome trauma, heal deep wounds, and create a positive impact on their lives.
How can I access your trauma healing books?
You can access my trauma healing books, Amazon’s number one best-selling authors, through various platforms, including Amazon Kindle, paperback, and other online bookstores. Additionally, you may find links to these books on my website, making it convenient for you to explore and purchase them.
Using Conscious Pregnancy a Pathway to Sovereignty
A holistic approach is always going to be the best approach in treating anyone whether their goal is to heal or to evolve. Every decision we make is influenced by our emotions. Emotions are the physical or embodied part of our feeling or thoughts. Our brain tries to make sense of our sensations and feelings things by giving them labels. We do this because it is a quick way of accessing information. Therefore we need to have our body and mind working together in harmony. This is what I do. Together we create the right physical and mental environment to focus on the outcome that you want. We will look at things like regulating your diet, sleep, activities, etc. so that you can experience feeling of being more in control and living more joyously.
Are your coaching programs tailored for specific individuals?
Yes, my coaching programs are personalized to cater to the unique needs and goals of each individual. Whether you a want coaching for reasons such as improving relationships, spiritual connection, optimising health or seeking healing from the Mother Wound, I will work closely with you to design a program that aligns with your desires and aspirations and which will result in personal growth.
How can I stay updated on your offerings and events?
To stay informed about my coaching programs, trauma healing books, and upcoming events, you can subscribe to my newsletter on the website. By joining the mailing list, you’ll receive regular updates, exclusive content, and early access to any new releases or offerings.
Note:
Content and imaging co-created with myself and opensource AI technology
“Mental resilience and dietary management are intertwined; together, they build the foundation of a serene and healthy pregnancy journey.”
