Gluten free diets are becoming more common than ever. People are going gluten free even though they may not have Celiac's disease because gluten is highly linked to inflammation. The Wall Street Journal published that eating gluten can set off a distinct reaction in the intestines and immune systems in people. When the majority of our immune system lies in our gut, the foods we eat are very critical to our health. Gluten can cause anything from a general feeling of unwellness, fatigue, chronic pain, gastrointestinal problems, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and osteoporosis.
Why the increase in gluten sensitivity?
One of the biggest reasons is the change in our food system. Modern farming has lead a higher content of gluten in wheat and over 90% of our wheat is GMO. Our bodies are probably unable to handle this "new" crop.
Now a gluten free diet. Don't make these 3 common mistakes when going gluten free!
1. Thinking "gluten-free" labels make it healthier.
Since many people are going gluten-free, companies have taken notice. People assume that a "gluten-free" label makes the product healthier. This is not always the case. Some products are actually more processed and have a higher content of sugar.
Rule: Read the nutrition and ingredient labels. Do you understand the ingredients? Look out of cornstarch or potato starch, which are even less nutritious. When it comes to labels - simple is best.
2. Hidden gluten in the ingredients.
Gluten can still be hiding in your food. Derivatives of gluten include: maltodextrin, MSG, and hydrolyzed vegetable protein. This are very common in supplements (NOTE: be aware of supplement quality!), salad dressings, soy sauce, and candy.
3. Eating processed foods instead of REAL FOOD.
Many people try to find alternatives to gluten and wheat products. Spend less time on this and more time on filling your diet with nutritious real foods like fruits, veggies, lean meats, good fats. That way you are getting your nutrients and an abundance of phytochemicals rather than sugar.
Gluten is not the cause of everyone's problems, but some may benefit from a trial elimination.
See how your body feels!
To learn more about the root cause of your symptoms, call 704-543-5540 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Megan Ding.