Healthier By Default? How Going Gluten-Free Can Improve Your Life
Ground turkey with green beans and cherry tomatoes, naturally gluten-free
Social media and diet culture are dangerous places to be when it comes to figuring out what’s the right eating style for you. No single diet works for everyone and we are not here for ‘diets’. While a gluten-free diet is a necessity for many, including those living with celiac disease, it can be a great way to eat healthier without making too many compromises. If you’re looking for a way to improve your life without taking on the latest extreme diet trend, consider a gluten-free diet instead.
In order to truly understand the way food breaks down in our bodies, it’s important to understand how our food is actually comprised. While almost the entire natural world of food is gluten-free, it’s the grains we have to look out for. Many grains contain the protein called ‘gluten,’ including wheat, barley and rye. While gluten is ‘harmless’ for most people, it can cause health issues for individuals with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. However, recent studies suggest that following a gluten-free diet can also offer benefits for individuals without gluten-related health issues.
Here are a few ways a gluten-free diet can potentially improve your health:
Reducing inflammation: Gluten can cause inflammation in the gut for many individuals. Chronic inflammation has been linked to various health issues, including autoimmune disorders, heart disease, and cancer. By avoiding gluten, individuals can potentially reduce inflammation and improve their overall health.
Boosting energy levels: Some individuals report feeling sluggish and tired after consuming gluten-containing foods. This could be due to the body's reaction to gluten, which can cause fatigue and brain fog. By eliminating gluten from the diet, individuals may experience increased energy levels and improved mental clarity.
Improving digestive health: While most individuals can digest gluten without issue, some individuals may experience digestive problems after consuming gluten. Symptoms can include bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. By following a gluten-free diet, individuals with gluten sensitivity or intolerance can potentially improve their digestive health and alleviate these symptoms.
Promoting weight loss: A gluten-free diet can potentially help individuals lose weight. Gluten-containing foods tend to be high in calories and low in nutrients, which can contribute to weight gain. By eliminating these foods, individuals may reduce their calorie intake and promote weight loss.
Encouraging a healthier diet: Following a gluten-free diet requires individuals to pay more attention to the foods they consume. This can lead to a healthier diet overall, as individuals are more likely to choose whole, unprocessed foods that are naturally gluten-free, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
It's important to note that a gluten-free diet is not a magic cure-all and may not offer benefits for everyone. Additionally, individuals who choose to follow a gluten-free diet must be careful to ensure they are still consuming all the necessary nutrients, as some gluten-free foods can be low in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
So, while a gluten-free diet may not be necessary for everyone, it can definitely offer benefits for individuals without gluten-related health issues. If only for the fact that it can help to reduce inflammation, a problem that everyone is affected by, especially those who consume the Standard American Diet [SAD}, gluten-free living is an easy way to improve your life. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making any significant changes to your diet to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.