The fatigue you're experiencing after consuming gluten could be due to either celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Here are some key points explaining why gluten might make you feel tired:

1. Celiac Disease: This is an autoimmune condition where ingesting gluten causes the immune system to attack the lining of the small intestine¹². This damage can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, which can result in fatigue, among other symptoms¹³. Malnutrition from poor nutrient absorption is a common cause of fatigue in individuals with celiac disease³.

2. Gluten Sensitivity: Unlike celiac disease, gluten sensitivity does not cause damage to the intestine but can still cause symptoms like fatigue, abdominal discomfort, and headaches⁴. The exact mechanism is not well understood, but it is believed to be due to a different immune response that does not involve the classic autoimmune pathway seen in celiac disease⁴.

3. Nutrient Deficiencies: Whether due to celiac disease or a generalized intolerance, gluten-induced malabsorption or other digestive issues can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients such as iron, B vitamins, and magnesium. These deficiencies can contribute significantly to feelings of tiredness and fatigue⁴⁵.

4. Inflammation and Immune Response: Both celiac disease and gluten sensitivity involve inflammatory responses that can affect your overall energy levels. Chronic inflammation, even at low levels, can lead to fatigue and reduced stamina⁶.

If you suspect that gluten is causing your fatigue, it may be helpful to keep a food diary and discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider. They may recommend tests for celiac disease and other related conditions.

Footnotes

1. MedlinePlus - Gluten Sensitivity ↩ ↩²

2. Mayo Clinic News Network - Coeliac Disease ↩

3. NHS - Coeliac Disease ↩ ↩²

4. PubMed - Fatigue in Celiac Disease ↩ ↩² ↩³

5. MedlinePlus - Celiac Disease ↩

6. PubMed - Fatigue and Gluten-Free Diet ↩