Sourdough Bread

While I've pointed the finger at GAM for the cause of April's GIT troubles, it could be that a switch to eating sourdough bread could also be a culprit. Early in April I switched from eating my regular bread to sourdough and coincidentally or not, that's when my GIT troubles began. I asked Gemini the following question:

Is it possible that a person can develop a negative reaction to sourdough bread, especially if that person is elderly?

Yes, it is absolutely possible for an elderly person to develop a negative reaction to sourdough bread, even if they have previously tolerated it well. Here's a breakdown of why:

1. Development of Gluten Sensitivity or Intolerance:

Can occur at any age: While often diagnosed earlier in life, gluten sensitivity or non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) can develop later in adulthood, including in the elderly.   

Symptoms: These can include digestive issues like bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, as well as non-digestive symptoms such as fatigue, skin rashes, headaches, and joint pain.   

Sourdough is not gluten-free: Although the fermentation process in sourdough can break down some gluten, it still contains gluten and is not safe for individuals with celiac disease or significant gluten sensitivity.   

2. Histamine Intolerance:

Fermented foods and histamine: Sourdough bread is a fermented food, and fermentation can increase histamine levels.

Elderly individuals may have reduced histamine breakdown: The enzyme responsible for breaking down histamine (DAO) may become less efficient with age or due to certain medications.   

Symptoms of histamine intolerance: These can be varied and may include digestive issues (bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea), skin reactions (hives, itching), headaches, changes in heart rate, and anxiety.

3. FODMAP Intolerance:

FODMAPs in wheat: Wheat contains fructans, which are a type of FODMAP (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols).   

Fermentation and FODMAPs: While the sourdough fermentation process can reduce some FODMAPs, it might not eliminate them entirely, and some individuals remain sensitive.

Elderly individuals may have increased sensitivity: Changes in gut bacteria and digestive function with age can make some individuals more susceptible to FODMAP-related digestive issues like gas, bloating, and altered bowel habits.

4. Changes in Digestive Function with Age:

Slower digestion: The digestive system tends to slow down with age.

Reduced stomach acid: Lower stomach acid production can affect the breakdown of food.

Changes in gut microbiota: The balance of bacteria in the gut can shift.

Medications: Many elderly individuals take multiple medications, which can have side effects on the digestive system.   

5. Other Potential Sensitivities:

Wheat allergy: Although less common than gluten sensitivity, a wheat allergy can develop at any age.   

Other components of bread: Individuals could potentially develop sensitivities to other ingredients in the sourdough bread, although this is less likely than reactions to gluten or histamine.

In summary, while sourdough bread is often praised for its digestibility due to the fermentation process, elderly individuals can still develop negative reactions due to newly developed gluten or histamine intolerance, sensitivity to remaining FODMAPs, age-related changes in digestion, or other less common sensitivities.

If an elderly person experiences negative symptoms after eating sourdough bread, it's important to consult with a doctor or a registered dietitian to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate dietary advice. They may recommend an elimination diet or other tests to pinpoint the trigger.

So I'm currently switched back to my regular bread and am feeling better. It's a little early let to be too optimistic but I'm quietly hopeful that sourdough bread may be the cause and not BAM.