Suddenly, we find that people are eager to join the new fad diet ‘gluten free’, to shed off the pounds. Is it a myth or a reality that gluten is the culprit behind all those unwanted pounds on our body?
What is Gluten?
Found in wheat, barley, and rye, Gluten is a common protein source and a food filler. It is also found in medications, and everyday items apart from your bread and cookies. Foods like cereals, alcoholic beverages such as beer and beauty products, such as lip balms, may also contain gluten.
How is Gluten Bad for us?
There are some 1% of the people in the world, who suffer from an immunity disorder called celiac disease. In this disease, the small intestines cannot process gluten and causes a serious response in the digestive system that may mean a life or death situation for these few. Only a specialised diagnosis can reveal whether a person is suffering from celiac disease.
For the rest of us who experience bloating or cramps in the stomach, headaches or other discomfort with consumption of gluten containing food might be having a gluten sensitivity and is non celiac in its nature. Some might also be suffering from gluten allergies. These people may opt to limit the consumption of food containing gluten.
Should Gluten be cut out from the Diet?
Many foods now come in gluten-free versions and it is always easy to think that they are a better alternative. However this is a wrong concept. Gluten is found in fibre rich whole grains and are a great way to eat nutritious food. Eating three servings of whole grains per day reduces the chances of developing type 2 diabetes by 30 per cent.
The mantra is to create a right mix of healthy carbohydrates, like whole-grain products to control blood sugar and avoid diabetes Whole grainsalso provide phytochemicals, which are nature’s disease fighters. Without these, we’d be very much prone to cancer, heart disease, and more. So cutting out gluten for no reason makes us lose out on the nutritional aspects of food containing gluten.
Is gluten Free Fat Free?
When trying to lose weight, the proper course of action is to make conscious choices about eating whole, real foods. In general, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meat helps us to lose weight.Naturally available gluten-free grains, like brown rice or quinoa can also be used.
Also, keep in mind that gluten-free foods are generally processed in factories that also process gluten foods. This leads to cross contamination. Therefore, rather than spending your hard earned money on gluten free products, try to create healthier diet options.
Photo Credit By: abcnews.com
