Gluten-free food items have become fashionable, and there is much debate over the health benefits and risks of doing so, even if you do not have gluten intolerance. However, for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, a gluten-free diet is essential. Gluten can be found in practically every food, from bread and cereals to snacks, drinks, and sauces. While it may be difficult to eliminate gluten-containing foods, the effort is well worth it. Gluten is a form of protein found in grains such as barley, rye or wheat with which we make starchy foods like bread, pasta or cereal.
While some starchy foods, such as potatoes or rice are inherently gluten-free, some regular meals may be off-limits on the gluten-free diet, according to USDA guidelines for 2020–2025. Most individuals can digest gluten and pass it through their systems without issue. Still, those with celiac disease, wheat allergy, or gluten intolerance have a harder time doing so. There are several myths about the gluten-free diet, but one thing is certain: it provides tremendous health benefits to those who have gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Here are a few of the health benefits of following a gluten-free diet.
Improves energy levels
Gluten sensitivity causes chronic fatigue in a large number of people. This is because gluten affects their intestines, impairing the absorption of various minerals, including iron. Anemia is caused by a deficiency of iron, which causes exhaustion and intolerance to activity. Switching to a gluten-free diet can help your intestines heal, improving nutrient absorption and energy levels.
Aids in weight loss
Gluten intolerance and Celiac disease have symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, gas, and fatigue, which can be nonspecific, leading to misdiagnosing the disorder for decades. This causes dietary deficits and severe and uncontrollable weight loss in many cases. A gluten-free diet will help in weight loss while eliminating certain nutritional deficiencies.
Eliminates bloating
If you have gluten intolerance or celiac disease, you will most likely experience bloating and gas after eating gluten-containing foods. You will notice an immediate improvement when you switch to a gluten-free diet since your digestive problems will subside and visibly flatten your stomach after your meal.
Joint Pain is Reduced
Gluten sensitivity and celiac disease are most commonly linked to the gastrointestinal tract, but they can have far-reaching consequences. Celiac disease increases the risk of inflammation by causing an abnormal immune response. Celiac disease is associated with joint discomfort, particularly in the knees, back, and wrists. A gluten-free diet can help prevent this type of joint discomfort, but eating even a small amount of gluten can cause your symptoms to return.
Reduces the frequency of headaches
Scientists have found that the stomach and brain are closely connected in recent decades, and various research is underway to determine the exact ramifications of this gut-brain relationship. Migraine headaches are more common in gluten-intolerant people who have celiac disease. However, switching to a gluten-free diet has been shown to help reduce the frequency of these headaches.
Reduces depression
Celiac disease patients are most likely to be depressed. Researchers discovered, however, that adhering to a gluten-free diet had a positive impact on depressive symptoms and could improve a patient’s quality of life.
Reduces lactose tolerance
Lactose intolerance is common in those who have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The enzyme lactase, which breaks down the lactose contained in dairy products, is produced by the stomach lining. Gluten sensitivity causes damage to the intestines, which makes lactase production difficult. This is a temporary effect, and a gluten-free diet will improve gut health and reduce or eliminate lactose intolerance symptoms.
Improves bone health
Patients with undiagnosed celiac disease frequently have substantial calcium deficits due to nutritional malabsorption. Calcium malabsorption has been related to a high risk of osteoporosis and osteopenia. Researchers discovered that celiac patients who ate a gluten-free diet significantly increased bone mineral density.
Improves skin health
Eczema and psoriasis are more common in people who have undiagnosed celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. A gluten-free diet can help you improve your overall skin health and possibly eliminate some skin problems.
Reduces hair loss
Celiac disease and gluten sensitivity have been linked to nutritional deficits, which lead to hair loss. A gluten-free diet can aid in reversing hair loss, increasing hair density, and improving hair texture.
Celiac disease and gluten intolerance include symptoms comparable to irritable bowel syndrome. Doctors frequently recommend serology tests that look for specific antibodies in your blood to lessen the possibility of a mistake. Celiac illness and gluten sensitivity have no cures, so you’ll have to exclude gluten-containing items from your diet for the rest of your life.
While a gluten-free diet can be restrictive, many nutritious and tasty alternatives are available. Eat whole, single-ingredient foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein sources. They will satisfy your stomach while also promoting good health.
Remember– “Healthy” Looks Different for Everyone
It’s easy to assume that what’s good for one person is also good for you. But unfortunately, that’s not how it works. Everyone has a unique combination of genes, gut bacteria, and environmental factors that contribute to their identity. This means that everyone reacts differently to diets, including gluten-free diets! The only way to find out if it works for you is to give it a shot! If you reap the benefits, great! If not, it’s time to move on to something else. Going gluten-free is an excellent place to begin your health journey, especially if you suspect gluten malfeasance! Why don’t you give a try to ZZorganic gluten free products
