I don’t want to scare you. I don’t want you to be worried or to have fear. I want you to accept something that happens to all of us. We all accidentally ingest gluten at some point in time. For all of our best efforts to prevent this from happening, it is just bound to happen. Don’t let the fear of ingesting gluten keep you from living. Instead of getting angry at yourself when a “glutening” occurs, have compassion. Focus your energy not on blame or shame, but on healing your body.

When I unknowingly ingest gluten I may know immediately, or I may not know for up to a day. The timing depends on what I’ve eaten, and the amount of gluten in the food. It then determines how quickly I can respond. While there is no magic pill to cure oneself from gluten ingestion, there are things one can do to help speed the healing process.

First, you want to hydrate. I like to drink fresh coconut water, but if I can’t get it fresh then I’ll drink either canned coconut water or kombucha. Coconut water contains some electrolytes, and is known for its hydrating abilities. When one experiences diarrhea as a symptom, hydration is key. Kombucha is another favorite beverage for hydration as it contains active probiotic cultures to help repopulate the intestine after a loss due to the damaging effects of gluten. A nice digestive tea containing fennel, ginger, or peppermint is also soothing to the digestive tract. These roots and herbs seem to help reduce inflammation, irritation, and spasming.

Second, it’s important to nourish the body through good foods like homemade stock (a.k.a. bone broth) and other non-inflammatory sustenance. Take in probiotic rich foods or supplements to continue to help heal the intestinal tact.

Third, try detoxifying activities like hot baths or showers or gentle yoga. This is not the time for vigorous activity. Detoxifying supplements might also be a good idea. I like to use activated charcoal to help reduce gas and bloating.

Finally, give yourself a break. Take naps. Don’t do as much as you normally would. If you have to work, or keep up with a regular routine be sure to do things slowly and carefully. Don’t beat yourself up over any mistakes you make. Have compassion for yourself. Love yourself.

None of the above treatments are going to cause an immediate effect, but they could very well speed up your recovery time. They’ve helped me over the years, and I hope they’ll help you.