Going gluten-free: individual trajectories of avoidance

Résumé En

Non-Glycemic Syndrome (NCGS) is a disease characterized by the absence of biomarkers, the existence of extra-intestinal symptoms, and the variability of its prevalence. In contrast to established pathologies, NCGS, although recognized by the medical community, remains controversial due to the lack of a biomarker. However, there is little social science research on consumers who choose to reduce or stop their gluten intake. This chapter suggests that the dynamics of gluten-free withdrawal practices should be explored, describing the stages, the role of the body and symptoms, as well as the resources provided by bodies, interpersonal relationships, and medical, commercial or media devices in the practices of avoiding or reducing gluten consumption. In order to understand the trajectories of gluten avoidance, the authors traced sensitive individuals’ itineraries, reporting on different stages (diagnostic wandering, diagnosis, strict, intermittent or selective gluten-free diet), from the onset of their symptoms to the resolution of their problems. The analysis of the pathways of gluten withdrawal makes it possible to identify the stages and resources that lead either to its avoidance, or reduction, or the selection of substitute products that are suitable for NCGS people. Moreover, the authors’ results shed new light on the stages of withdrawal processes. The detachment and attachment processes are present in NCGS individuals’ trajectories, but a number of stages are dissociated from the carriers of innovation or change.