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I Went Gluten-Free for 7 Months – Here’s What Happened

Published March 10th, 2025 by Dr. Sam Camarata

For years, I struggled with bloating, stomach issues, chronic fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, and recurring injuries. No matter what I did, I couldn’t shake the feeling of being inflamed and exhausted all the time.

I chalked it up to stress, work, and just life—until I finally decided to dig deeper into my health. That’s when I took a food sensitivity test (FIT 176) with Gut Barrier Panel, which revealed something I never expected:

Severe gluten sensitivity and leaky gut syndrome.

Gluten was destroying my gut, immune system, energy, recovery, and overall health. I made a commitment that day—I was going 100% gluten-free with NO cheating, and here’s what I discovered over the past 7 months.

Before Going Gluten-Free: The Warning Signs I Ignored

Before I eliminated gluten, my daily life looked like this:

  • Bloating after every meal
  • Constant stomach & digestive problems
  • Extreme fatigue no matter how much I slept
  • Dependent on coffee & espresso just to function
  • Sinus congestion & headaches
  • Inflammation in every joint & muscle
  • Recurring injuries & poor recovery from workouts
  • Struggled to heal after my hernia surgery
  • Brain fog, forgetfulness, & occasional slurred speech
  • Running to the bathroom 5-10 times a day
  • Weight gain & trouble losing fat
  • Frequent aches, pains, and stiffness

The last straw was a travel baseball trip with my son’s team. I ate out with the team, and within an hour, I felt like I was dying. My entire body flared up with inflammation, I could barely breathe, my stomach was distended and I had to pop Advil like candy just to push through the night.

That was my wake-up call. I knew I had to take control of my health before I lost even more time, energy, and quality of life with my family and career.

The First Few Weeks: The Toughest Part

The first few weeks were hard— Growing up Italian - you're telling me I couldn't eat pasta or bread?! I realized how many hidden sources of gluten were in everyday foods. I had to read every label, plan every meal, and learn how to fuel my body properly without gluten-based foods. Thank you to my amazing wife! - she helped prepare the best gluten free meals! Shout out to Bozza Pasta for their phenomenal gluten free pasta! 

But then, something amazing happened…

By month 3, I started noticing incredible changes in my body and mind.

What Happened After 7 Months Gluten-Free

  • Lost 15 lbs effortlessly
  • Energy skyrocketed – no more caffeine crashes!
  • No more bloating or stomach issues – my digestion felt amazing
  • Sinus congestion, headaches, and brain fog were GONE
  • Better sleep & deeper recovery
  • Faster post-workout recovery & fewer injuries
  • Aches, pains, and stiffness disappeared
  • No more running to the bathroom
  • Sharper focus, better concentration, and improved mood

Most importantly? I feel like I got my life back!

I was present for my family again. I wasn’t exhausted, irritable, or too inflamed to enjoy life. I could work, exercise, and be a chiropractor without suffering every single day.

Why Gluten Sensitivity Matters More Than You Think

Many people assume gluten sensitivity only causes digestive issues, but it affects so much more:

  • Gut Health & Leaky Gut – Gluten can increase intestinal permeability, leading to inflammation and autoimmune-like symptoms.
  • Brain Function – Studies link gluten to brain fog, fatigue, mood swings, and even neurological issues.
  • Joint & Muscle Pain – Chronic inflammation from gluten can trigger widespread pain and stiffness.
  • Recovery & Performance – Gluten can slow down muscle repair and make injuries linger.
  • Weight Gain & Metabolic Issues – Many people find it easier to maintain a healthy weight when they eliminate gluten.

If you’ve been struggling with unexplained symptoms, it may be time to look at food sensitivity testing and eliminating gluten from your diet.

How to Know If Gluten Is Affecting You

If you experience bloating, fatigue, pain, brain fog, digestive issues, or constant inflammation, you may be sensitive to gluten—even if you don’t have Celiac Disease.

The best way to find out? Food sensitivity testing.

FIT 176 Food Sensitivity & Gut Barrier Panel Test - helps pinpoint exactly which foods are causing inflammation in your body.

I never would have figured out my gluten sensitivity without testing. It gave me clear answers—and making the change completely transformed my health.

Final Thoughts: Will I Ever Eat Gluten Again?

After 7 months of being 100% gluten-free, I can confidently say I’m never going back. (Unless we go to Italy for vacation and eat their pasta because many say it's different than the USA!)

I feel better than I have in years. My body heals, recovers, and performs better. My mind is sharper, and I’m no longer wasting hours of my life feeling sick, tired, and inflamed.

If you’re struggling with daily symptoms and can’t figure out why—test your food sensitivities. It might change your life like it did for me.

Want to Learn More About Food Sensitivity Testing?

Are you ready to take control of your health? Food Sensitivity Testing helps you pinpoint exactly what’s causing inflammation, digestive issues, and fatigue in your body.

Contact Us Now:

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