May 02 2011
The Gluten Free Diet – Are There Any Benefits?
In the past few years, we have seen an increase in the variety and availability of gluten-free product choices. The gluten free diet is the only treatment for celiac disease and people with the condition must learn how to change their diet. But lately, clients without celiac disease are asking whether they should go on a gluten free diet to improve their health. After all, gluten free products are readily available in grocery stores. Numerous books, magazines and celebrities are singing praises of the diet, so why not?
The short answer to this question is “it depends on your circumstances.” Understand exactly what your needs and goals for following such a plan may be, and that should help you answer the question. If you have been diagnosed with celiac disease, then gluten free the only way to go. There are also people who have sensitivity to wheat and wheat products, and following the gluten free diet may help decrease certain symptoms.
As for the rest of us, it’s important to consider the cost and content of gluten free foods. In case you haven’t noticed, gluten free foods are quite expensive; a loaf of gluten free bread, for example is about $8.00. Many packaged gluten free foods contain highly processed flours (such as white rice or potato flour) to replace wheat flour. Items often contain more sugar or fat in order to make the food more palatable.
If you have decided to go gluten (or wheat) free, there’s no harm in doing so. Focus on the many wonderful foods that are gluten free naturally. Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, millet, and buckwheat are nutritious replacements for wheat-based products. Healthful foods such as beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables are naturally gluten free. Whole, unprocessed meats, fish, poultry, eggs, cheese and milk are excellent sources of protein without gluten. Any eating plan including a variety of these whole foods will be very healthful. As for the packaged gluten free products, it’s important to do your homework and know exactly what you are buying!
If you would like to learn more on this subject, I recommend Gluten Free Diet-A Comprehensive Resource Guide by Shelley Case.
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