Surprising Myths and Facts About Gluten Free Diets

Gluten-free diets have become all the rage over the last several years. It seems as if everywhere you turn there is a new gluten-free food being advertised. Pinterest and other recipe websites are loaded with gluten-free recipes. While this is beneficial for people with celiac disease and other gluten intolerances, you may be wondering if it is beneficial for the average person. Learn more about the surprising myths and facts surrounding gluten-free diets.

3 Myths About Gluten-Free Diets

MYTH: Eliminating Gluten Will Make You Feel More Energized

Many people who have eliminated gluten may tell you that they feel more energized. This idea comes from the thought that gluten can take more energy for your body to digest, which in turn can create a feeling of sluggishness. However, there have been zero studies to back up this claim. Several foods containing gluten are actually faster for your body to process than other healthy fats or animal proteins.

MYTH: Gluten-Free Diets Are Low Carb

While many foods containing gluten do contain carbs, that does not mean that all gluten-free foods are low-carb. Many gluten-free foods are actually rich in carbohydrates, including potatoes, sugar, rice, and fruit, just to name a few.

MYTH: Gluten Free is Healthier for Everyone

While many people think that gluten-free food is automatically healthy, that is simply not the case. Gluten-free diets are a must for anyone living with celiac disease. For these individuals, a gluten-free diet is a necessary component of optimal health. However, it is not necessarily a healthy choice for people not living with celiac disease.

Gluten is contained in grains; therefore, many items are baked goods and other less nutritious types of foods. In explaining why gluten-free foods are not necessarily healthier than their conventional counterparts, Jamie Oliver states, “Those choosing to avoid gluten will likely avoid these types of products, but a gluten-free equivalent cake or biscuit, with nothing different other than the removal of gluten, will be no healthier than their gluten-containing equivalents. Sometimes gluten-free products can even be higher in fat, sugar, and salt to improve their flavor or texture. Not only that, but by excluding whole groups of foods, you are putting yourself at risk of lowering intakes of certain vitamins and minerals. For example, by cutting out gluten you are also reducing your intake of whole grains, a key source of fiber in the diet and something most of us don’t get enough of.”

3 Facts About Gluten-Free Diets

FACT: Celiac Disease and Gluten Intolerance Should Be Diagnosed by a Medical Professional

With the rise in the availability of gluten-free foods and the proliferation of conflicting information on the internet, many individuals have taken it upon themselves to self-diagnose. However, the only way to tell if you truly need to go gluten-free is to have medical tests done to confirm the diagnosis. In an interview with the Celiac Foundation, Sheila Crowe, professor of gastroenterology at the UC San Diego School of Medicine, states, “Before taking treatment — i.e. gluten-free eating — into your own hands, ‘you want to nail down that diagnosis,’ says Crowe. If you’re losing weight, are deficient in iron, anemic or you have a family history of celiac disease, talk to a doctor before simply giving up gluten to see how you feel.”

FACT: Gluten Can Be Found in Surprising Foods

While gluten is naturally occurring in certain grains, it is sometimes found as an additive in places you wouldn’t normally think to look. Processed meats, such as lunch meat and hot dogs may contain gluten. Faux meat products, such as veggie burgers may also be a culprit. Candy, salad dressing, condiments...there is a long list of foods with gluten as an additive. Even certain medications may contain gluten. Therefore, if you have been diagnosed with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, it is important to read all product labels carefully.

FACT: Eating Gluten Adds Protein To Your Diet

Gluten actually is protein. It’s the name of the protein that is found in rye, barley, and wheat. Gluten helps these foods maintain their shape, all while adding protein to your diet.

Gluten Myths, Facts, and Health Supplements

Gluten has become a buzzword in the health and wellness community over the past few years. As it has become a popular subject, there have been many sources of conflicting information. Know the myths and facts surrounding gluten, so you can make an informed decision for your health and your loved ones.

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