The gluten-free diet used to only apply to those with Celiac disease, but it has grown in popularity among other demographics as well. If you’re considering reducing or cutting gluten, it’s important to understand the basics before making such a lifestyle change.

The rundown on gluten

Gluten is a protein found in many grains, such as wheat in all forms, rye, and barley. Disorders including Celiac disease, wheat allergies, and non-celiac intolerance all revolve around problems with gluten digestion.

Misconceptions

For those of you who believe eating gluten-free promotes weight loss, keep in mind that this may work, but only if you are focusing on other areas of nutrition. Switching to tapioca bread instead of white bread won’t change the fact you are still eating bread. For those with a gluten allergy, tapioca bread is more easily digestible, making it a viable option.

On the other hand, if you’re interested in a gluten-free diet for weight loss purposes and decide to cut out bread completely, consider sticking to hearty grains like quinoa or polenta. Because these grains don’t include gluten, they are easier to digest. Once you eat natural whole grains without gluten, you may have the potential for weight loss, but again, eating tapioca bread instead of white just replaces something of no nutritional value for another. The key is to eat natural gluten free grains like amaranth, buckwheat, millet, teff, and brown rice that are packed with good vitamins.

Who this diet may benefit

Those without Celiac who begin this lifestyle will usually hop on board due to other issues, such as digestion issues. Many tend to link gluten intolerance to underlying digestive issues they may be unaware of. If you are struggling with any kind of digestive issues, maybe eating gluten free will help alleviate the symptoms.

If you have a family member with a strict no gluten diet, it is common for family members to stop eating it as well, for safety purposes, as well as, it’s just easier for everyone to do it then have to constantly cook separate meals.

If you are simply trying to eat better and have no gluten-related or digestion issues, then sticking to a healthier diet that focuses mainly on more natural grains then processed, so you don’t have to say goodbye to everything wheat when it’s not necessarily bad for you.

Before starting any new diet, you should always educate yourself to ensure that you’re making an informed choice. Reach out to your doctor with any questions and to determine if a gluten-free diet is right for you.