More and more people are choosing a gluten-free diet, but it may not be healthy for everyone
In recent years, a naturally occurring protein called gluten found in some grains has unintentionally gotten a bad rap in the nutrition industry, which promotes diets without this nutrient.
Gluten-free food options continue to grow on grocery store shelves and restaurant menus, are considered healthier, and are popular among people who choose a gluten-free diet (celebrities, athletes, and perhaps even yours). (even relatives) are increasing. Alternatively, it can be the solution to many ailments, including skin conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, and difficulty managing weight.
When following a gluten-free diet, you must avoid foods or foods that contain gluten, a type of wheat protein.
Some foods, such as soy sauce, flour, beer, pastries, some flavored rice mixes, snack foods, and soup mixes, contain gluten, as do other grains such as wheat, barley, and rye, according to Masu. health.
People with celiac disease, an autoimmune disease caused by gluten, are medically required to follow a gluten-free diet. The only known treatment for celiac disease is to follow a gluten-free diet, which cuts out all sources of gluten.
Even for people who are forced to follow a gluten-free diet to prevent nutritional deficiencies, their meal plan should be carefully planned, preferably by a doctor.
“There are some studies showing that a gluten-free diet may help lower thyroid antibody levels,” said Alyssa Pacheco, RD. “However, the results are inconclusive and it is not recommended for everyone with this condition.”
Another condition for which avoiding foods containing gluten may help some people with the condition is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A small 2016 study found that for some people, six weeks of a gluten-free diet may reduce the intensity of IBS.
IBS patients are sensitive to short-chain carbohydrates known as FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols), which are poorly absorbed in the intestines and cause digestive inflammation. As a result, gluten may not be the main cause of these people's symptoms.
Gluten-free meals are also expensive. Research shows that gluten-free bread and bakery products cost about 267% more than gluten-containing bread, and gluten-free cereals cost up to 205% more than regular cereals.
