These days, now and then a new type of diet becomes a trend. From Keto to intermittent fasting to veganism.
‘Gluten-free diet’ is another preference by celebrities and dieticians. But before you start the diet, you really should think- do you need it, is it healthy or is it just one of those viral trends?
What Is Gluten?
Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat, rye and barley. It acts as a glue, as it maintains the shape of the food.
Earlier a gluten-free diet was more of a nutritional choice. But, lately, it has got all the attention because people think it can help in weight loss, energy boosting and reducing inflammation or bloating.
So, if you are thinking to start a gluten-free diet, read this misconception vs reality surrounding gluten:
Misconception 1: Gluten Is Not Good For Health
Reality: If you’re someone allergic to wheat, have developed gluten sensitivity, or have been diagnosed with celiac disease, then yes you should follow a gluten-free diet. According to a 2022 article by Harvard Medical School, ‘people with celiac disease avoid sickness and maintain much better health if they follow a gluten-free diet. For them, a gluten-free diet is nothing short of essential’.
Whereas, there is no proper evidence to support that people who do not have celiac disease, should not eat gluten.
Misconception 2: Human Body Cannot Digest Gluten
Reality: Various studies and remarks by biologists have proven that all those who do not have developed gluten intolerance can perfectly digest gluten.
Professional Sports Nutritionist Shubham Jain told NewsMobile that, ‘it (totally) depends on the individual, if they do not have any stomach or intestinal problems, then it is digestible like any other protein. We are born with enzymes capable of digesting gluten.”
Misconception 3: Gluten-Free Diet Helps In Weight-Loss
Reality: Gluten-free diet has never been associated with weight loss, it essentially is for people with gluten intolerance, cites Shubham Jain. According to him, marketing strategies by companies led people into believing that it is for weight loss. Though, people do experience weight loss in this diet, only because the consumption of processed food becomes limited.