You’ve likely heard countless times that before attempting a gluten-free diet, it’s crucial to consult a dietitian or other nutritional expert. However, those consuming a typical gluten-filled diet might actually be the ones in serious need of nutritional help. By adopting a gluten-free diet, limiting processed foods and sugar, and consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, and good protein sources, you’re essentially eating some of the healthiest foods available.
Understanding Gluten and Its Effects
Gluten, a type of protein found in wheat, barley, and oats, cannot be digested by humans. For some individuals with celiac disease, consuming gluten leads to an autoimmune reaction that damages the small intestine’s lining. Consequently, the body’s ability to absorb nutrients is hindered, which often results in severe digestive distress and nutrient deficiency diseases. Suffering from leaky gut syndrome is also possible due to nutrients passing through the body. Furthermore, gluten can trigger immune inflammatory attacks on nerves, brain cells, and other parts of the body in certain individuals. As a result, these people may experience problems with muscle coordination, memory difficulties, and brain fog.
Sensitivities to gluten can cause various symptoms, including chronic fatigue, eczema, irritability, lymphoma, joint pain, headache, depression, and osteoporosis. However, defining individuals who are gluten-sensitive without showing signs of celiac disease remains a challenge. Even the precise calculation of the percentage of the population with gluten sensitivities is uncertain. All these factors contribute to the overall confusion surrounding gluten and whether everyone should avoid it.
Adopting a Gluten-Free Diet
If you want to embrace a gluten-free diet, focus on consuming real food instead of items imitating products containing gluten. Stay away from processed gluten-free foods like cookies, cakes, and bread. If you’re unsure about which foods contain hidden gluten, seeking nutritional guidance might be beneficial. Consume at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily, and include good protein sources like fish and meat in your meals (organic, free-range meat is best).
Suppose you’re concerned about getting the necessary nutrients while on a gluten-free diet. In that case, consider taking a multi-vitamin and multi-mineral supplement to stay supplied with micronutrients.
The Growing Problem
Experts now estimate that around 1% of the U.S. population suffers from celiac disease, but most remain unaware of it. Researchers also remain puzzled regarding the increasing incidence of celiac disease – currently four times higher than a century ago. Amid all this controversy, more people are switching to gluten-free diets. While opinions differ, going gluten-free seems like a great idea for many individuals seeking to maintain their overall health and wellness.
In conclusion, adopting a gluten-free diet might prove beneficial, particularly in limiting your sugar and processed food consumption. However, always prioritize real food in embracing this diet, including fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat, to maintain a balanced nutritional profile.
