We’ve been hearing the term ‘gluten-free’ for years now. The WTM team looks into the health trend that, believe it or not, actually claims bread is good for you — a specific kind at least.
Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye, can cause people who suffer from celiac disease (a chronic digestive disorder) a host of health issues including malnutrition, fatigue and headaches. All kinds of food items are now being produced to help individuals who suffer from the clinically diagnosed intolerance.
The trend however, is now being sported by health and wellbeing fanatics from around the world. Yes ladies, long gone are the days when simply saying no to extra toppings and desserts would count you as health conscious. Now we even have to be particular about our dough. However nutritious this fad may be, it begs the question, is it really necessary for those of us who have a tolerance for the protein?
After strenuous research, we concluded that it probably isn’t. It isn’t as healthy as it’s perceived either. What’s for certain is that gluten is the hot thing to avoid right now and this is one trend that is here to stay. This is largely thanks to celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Oprah Winfrey, who have all but acted as spokespeople for the now much hated protein.
With regards to shedding kilos, many perceive this diet as the magical one-way ticket to thinner thighs and washboard abs. Unfortunately, there is no magical solution that could excuse you out of a workout.
In fact, studies show that a gluten-free diet can lack vitamins, minerals and fibre. Many experts say that the weight loss is simply due to the fact that going gluten-free in effect makes you drastically reduce your calorie intake. So a less expensive way of losing weight could be to just cut down on your baked goods in general!
Another thing to note is that gluten is the element that makes dough stretchy and gives bread its texture — it also makes food tasty. So by removing it, manufacturers use more fat and sugar to make food more palatable.
Our verdict
It may be healthy; it is also not practical. Instead, why not opt for a gluten-less detox? Go on it for a few days or a week, it can help you rejuvenate and jumpstart your diet, making you limit your overall calorie intake.
Do you have celiac disease?
If you do, then a gluten-free diet is essential and you must consult a doctor. The condition, caused by an abnormal immune response to gluten can go undetected. Symptoms of celiac disease include diarrhoea, anaemia and bone pain. It can also affect the skin, hormones and joints.
