Genetic test for gluten intolerance
Gluten intolerance affects around 1 in 120 people. It often appears when solid food is introduced to infants or between 30. and 40. years of age.
Gluten, a protein present in many foods, can trigger an immune response in the gut. Around 95% of cases of this intolerance are caused by an inherited characteristic in certain genes. An abnormal reaction to gluten may damage the small intestine and cause symptoms such as diarrhoea and loss of appetite and weight. Untreated intolerance may cause serious health conditions, including tumours.
Gluten intolerance occurs only in people who possess certain genes. People without the genetic factor associated with gluten intolerance have practically no risk of developing this disease. However, many people with the genetic factor for gluten intolerance never actually develop the disease. Even if you are at risk of gluten intolerance, there is a good chance that you will never actually develop it. Nevertheless, you should monitor your body carefully to recognise symptoms early and prevent organ damage through an appropriate diet.
Genetic testing for gluten can help diagnose gluten intolerance. Treatment involves a lifelong gluten-free diet, which usually leads to improvement and disappearance of symptoms. It is important to follow an appropriate diet and take necessary supplements
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Typical symptoms of gluten intolerance include:
- Diarrhoea or irregular bowel movements
- Bloating
- Weakness, fatigue and abdominal pain
- Iron-deficiency anaemia, which may lead to muscle and joint pain
- Occasional vomiting
- Loss of appetite and weight loss, which may lead to malnutrition
- Painful skin blisters
- Delayed growth in infants if intolerance is not detected in time
- Serious diseases that may follow, such as: lactose intolerance, tumours of the ear, nose and throat (9 times increased risk) or tumours of the lymphatic system (40-80 times increased risk)
Questions answered by genetic testing for gluten intolerance:
- The presence of genetic factors: Testing identifies genetic variations, such as HLA DQ2.2, HLA DQ2.5 and HLA DQ8, that are associated with gluten intolerance.
- Risk of gluten intolerance: Test results indicate whether you are at increased risk of developing gluten intolerance based on your genetic profile.
- Possible disease development: Although you possess the genetic factor for gluten intolerance, testing does not guarantee that you will actually develop the disease. Nevertheless, it provides information about risk and the need to monitor symptoms carefully.
- The effect of genetic variations on health: A summary of the effects of genetic variations helps explain how your genetic profile may affect the development of gluten intolerance and allows timely recognition of symptoms and dietary adjustments to prevent possible complications.
Who is this testing intended for ?
- People with an inherited predisposition: If you have a family history of gluten intolerance, genetic testing can provide information about your own genetic risk.
- People with non-specific symptoms: If you have symptoms such as digestive problems, fatigue or weight loss without knowing the cause, testing may help identify a possible genetic connection to gluten intolerance.
- People who want risk information: If you want to learn your genetic risk of gluten intolerance in advance so that you can take preventive measures in time.
- People planning dietary adjustments: If you want to adapt your diet based on genetic information to prevent possible complications and maintain health.
- People who want to understand their health better: If you want a deeper understanding of genetic factors that may affect your health and dietary needs.
Step 1.
Analysis of two relevant genetic variations
Step 2.
Assessment of individual risk of intolerance to gluten
Step 3.
Written report with investigation results
Step 4.
Interpretation and consultation with a nutritionist
Genetic test for gluten intolerance
