01 Aug Gluten-Free Diet: Should You Try It?
A gluten-free diet has become a trendy regimen due to beliefs that it could be better for the gut health, boosts energy, and can help in weight loss.
However, jumping aboard on a trendy diet could do more harm than good, especially if you are not aware of the pros and cons.
Gluten-free diet means that you will only consume foods without any gluten, which includes fruits, vegetables, and meats. It will also mean avoiding most types of bread, whole grains, certain condiments, and other baked goods, among others.
Before trying the gluten-free diet, here’s what you should know.
Gluten-Free Diet: The Bad
When it comes to gluten-free foods, they have less iron, folic acid, and other nutrients compared to other regular foods. Instead, it contains more fat and sugar, with less fiber, which could lead to obesity and unwanted weight gain.
Another downside of the trendy diet is its cost. It can be more expensive, with little or no proof that it could be a healthier option for you.
Getting enough whole grains in your diet is important, especially if you’re at risk for heart disease and diabetes.
Who Benefits From Gluten-Free Diet?
Some people can benefit from gluten-free diet, especially those with wheat and celiac allergy, including other autoimmune disorders.
Those diagnosed with celiac disease experience belly pain, nausea, bloating, and diarrhea. People with this condition cannot tolerate gluten.
People with gluten sensitivity and wheat allergy can also benefit from gluten-free diet.
If you are avoiding gluten in your meals, you should steer clear of:
- wheat bran
- wheat flour
- Spelt
- Durum
- Kamut
- Semolina
- Rye
- Barley
Consult your health care provider if you decided to change diets to know if it’s the right choice for you.
SOURCE:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/ditch-the-gluten-improve-your-health
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/gluten-free-diet#what-to-avoid