Craze for “gluten free diet” is still on even after 10+ years.
It is usual for any new diet to pick up some craze initially. But over a period, it fades away as well. Surprisingly, this is not the case for gluten free diet. It certainly offers some benefit especially in diabetes, celiac disease, and aids in weight loss. But does that mean, everyone will get benefit by following gluten free diet?
Let’s talk in detail.
Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat, barley and rye.
In Latin, the word “gluten” literally means “glue”- a sticky substance. Sticky component in grain helps in binding dishes well. It provides dishes structure, chewiness and adds extra flavour. For making light, airy & fluffy bread, adding gluten is must. It’s usually added in dishes like bread, pizza, cookie, cake, pasta and backed items for enhancing their taste.
Now you know the precise reason why we do not enjoy gluten free dessert.
Gluten suits to most of the people. And there is no need for all to follow gluten free diet. However, there are 3 conditions in which it is utmost important to avoid gluten and follow gluten free diet strictly.
1) Celiac Disease – It is a type of an autoimmune disease in which our body’s immune system gets threatened by gluten. As a result, our immune system starts attacking our intestines after consuming gluten. This causes a lot of damage to our intestines, and it hampers our digestive system. Due to damage to the intestines and destruction of the villi, absorption of the nutrients in the food becomes difficult. This can further lead to malnutrition, low vitamin levels, stomach issues, low energy, dental problems, and many more serious conditions. Getting diagnosed by a doctor for celiac disease is crucial before one gets into a serious trouble.
2) Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity – In this condition, our immune system doesn’t get threatened and attack intestines, but our digestive system will have trouble digesting gluten. This will lead to issues like stomach pain, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, joint pain etc. It also increases risk of conditions such as eczema, anemia, depression, allergies, migraine etc. Unfortunately, diagnosis for gluten sensitivity is difficult. One should stop consuming gluten and check whether their symptoms start disappearing or not. If they start getting better over a period, removing gluten is advisable for them.
3) Wheat Allergy – In case of wheat allergy, body will show physical reaction including itchy skin, rashes, swelling, watery eyes etc. It can also add difficulty in breathing. If after consumption of wheat, any of this happens, one should stop consuming gluten. Getting diagnosis for wheat allergy is advisable.
To follow “Gluten free diet” is the only solution in these 3 conditions.
What can be consumed in this condition?
- All types of fruits and vegetables
- Dal, pulses, nuts & seeds
- Meat, fish, eggs
- Milk and milk products
- Grain which doesn’t contain gluten such as oats, brown rice, quinoa, amaranth, bajra, jowar, buckwheat, corn etc.
- Flour made from almonds, chickpeas, potatoes, pulses can be used instead of wheat flour.
Unfortunately, one cannot completely recover from this condition but after making changes in the diet, body will start to recover. It’s advisable to follow gluten free diet strictly and take additional supplements for vitamins after consulting doctor or health professional.
Thank you.