The human body has had thousands of years to adapt to eating wheat and gluten. So why do so many people still experience gluten-related health problems? The truth is, even for those who don’t have a gluten sensitivity, there’s very little nutritional benefit to be gained from consuming gluten. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that the human body simply cannot digest gluten. Instead, it passes through your digestive system. Some may argue that eating gluten can improve one’s health by avoiding other grains, but there’s a lot more to the story!
The Complex History of Gluten and Wheat
According to a report in The New York Times, the health issues caused by gluten might not stem from the gluten itself or the other substances found in grains. Instead, science journalist Moises Velasquez-Manoff suggests that our issues with disease might be the result of living in densely populated areas and being exposed to all kinds of illnesses.
However, contrary to Velasquez-Manoff’s viewpoint, many critics argue that gluten can still be problematic. Dr. William Davis, a cardiologist and author of the book “Wheat Belly,” strongly believes that the human digestive system hasn’t fully adapted to consuming gluten, even after thousands of years of eating wheat.
In Dr. Davis’s opinion, humans will never fully adapt to consuming wheat due to its many harmful components. But just what are these components, and how do they affect us?
Gluten’s Impact on Health
Wheat contains many problematic elements, including:
- Phytates: These chemicals inhibit the absorption of essential nutrients in the digestive tract.
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Amylopectin carbohydrate: Consuming this substance causes blood sugar to spike rapidly, increasing the risk of diabetes.
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Gliadin protein: This can cause serious issues for those prone to schizophrenia and complications for people with bipolar disorder. It can also lead to problems in children with ADHD and individuals with autism.
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Changes in gut bacteria: Components of wheat have altered the population of probiotic bacteria in the digestive tract. These changes are likely connected to issues with obesity and autoimmune diseases.
Despite these facts, gluten remains a common ingredient in many people’s diets. This is particularly concerning when you consider that an estimated 1% of the population has been diagnosed with celiac disease (an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten consumption), and a shocking 83% of Americans with celiac disease may be going undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.
Take Control of Your Health by Cutting Out Gluten
Those with chronic health issues should consider the possibility that gluten is causing or exacerbating their problems. If years of doctor visits haven’t helped, it’s worth trying a gluten-free diet to see if your health improves. This might seem daunting at first, especially given how prevalent gluten is in our modern diets, but for many, the benefits far outweigh the challenges.
If you’re considering a gluten-free lifestyle change, there are a few tips that can help you along the way:
- Educate yourself: Learn about gluten-free options and which foods to avoid. Familiarize yourself with common sources of hidden gluten, such as sauces, beverages, and processed foods. You can refer to trusted health websites such as Healthline and Celiac Disease Foundation for comprehensive guides to living gluten-free.
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Experiment with gluten-free recipes: There’s a wealth of resources out there for delicious and satisfying gluten-free meals. Discovering new recipes and foods can make this lifestyle adventure more enjoyable.
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Be mindful of cross-contamination: If you share your living space with others who still consume gluten, be aware of potential cross-contamination. Store and prepare gluten-free foods separately from those containing gluten.
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Know your limits: Some people may find that they can tolerate small amounts of gluten without any adverse effects. Others might experience severe symptoms even with trace amounts. It’s crucial to know your body and establish your personal boundaries with gluten.
With the increasing availability of gluten-free options and the growing awareness of the potential health problems associated with gluten, it’s now easier than ever to adopt a gluten-free lifestyle. By cutting out gluten, you might discover that you feel more energetic, have fewer digestive issues, and even improve your overall well-being. Give it a try – the benefits might be life-changing.
