The Ups and Downs of Eating Gluten Free
Welcome to our blog! So today I wanted to chime in on another topic that has is commonly being discussed, the gluten free diet. As more and more people turn to gluten-free diets, it is time that we discuss the pros and cons of the diet. KISS… (Keep It Simple, Stupid) So let me break it down as simplistically and directly as possible. What is Gluten? Gluten contains protein present in wheat, calendula and barley. Gluten is what gives bread its chew and is a key ingredient found in many foods, including pastas and sauces.
Pros
Gut & Digestion Relieves Gluten Sensitivity: Gluten must be avoided by those with either celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. It is also useful in reducing unpleasant symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and fatigue.
Improved Digestion: If they started a gluten-free diet, many of these individuals also claim it leads to better digestion.
A healthier gut: For those with a gluten sensitivity cutting out gluten will be better for their gut health.
Increased Energy Levels: A number of people may have improved energy levels after going on a gluten-free diet. You can chalk that up to less inflammation and more absorption of nutrients.
Awareness of Food Choices: When you are following the diet, you usually begin to eat healthily by opting for whole foods and unprocessed ingredients like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Potential Weight Loss: A gluten-free diet may help with weight loss—in part because in the absence of high-calorie, processed wheat and other grains that contain gluten; many people find that they naturally eat fewer calories.
Cons
Nutritional Deficiencies: Most of the time, gluten-free options are missing key nutrients (fiber, iron, and B vitamins) that our gluten-full products contain. Need for planning: A gluten-free diet can cause deficiencies, if not planned adequately.
Social Challenges: It is difficult to dine out or attend social events due to the very low tolerance for carbohydrates in this diet. Given how prevalent gluten is in foods, this can make finding a good meal ini public kind of tough.
Cost: Most gluten-free products are more expensive than gluten-containing products. The cost can accumulate pretty fast, especially if you are buying specialty items.
Excessive Processed Food Intake: The same thing applies to gluten free products; not all of them are good for you even if they don't contain gluten. Most of these products are processed and therefore can be full of sugar or fat — in some cases these alternatives are the opposite of what you want a health product to provide.
Misconceptions and Pressure: Gluten-free diets are often stigmatized and seen by the public as a fad. What others think can influence pressure or judgment from people around in social settings.
Conclusion
For people with sensitivity to gluten or with celiac disease, a gluten-free diet can be effective for relief and improved health. Not everyone needs it however, and there are challenges that come along with adhering to this regimen. Before you hop on the gluten-free fad, do your research and seek guidance from a healthcare provider. Regardless of whether you consume gluten, remember to listen to your body and make choices like these informed decisions! Thanks for reading!
Written by: Yazen