The Gluten Free Diet

Gluten Free Diet: What are the benefits?

A gluten free diet is simply a diet that avoids gluten.

Gluten is found in wheat, barley, rye and other grains. It is also used as a flavoring agent and known as dextrin. The rise of popularity of this diet has coincided with the increase of diagnosis of celiac disease.

Celiac disease is a disorder for people suffering from gluten intolerance. This occurs when the small intestine is unable to absorb nutrients because of inflammation brought on by the presence of gluten. Sufferers of celiac disease can also suffer lack of energy and chronic diarrhea. By removing gluten from the diet, the sufferer is able to rebound with more energy and normal bowel functions as the small intestine begins to work correctly.

Gluten Free Diet

Sufferers of celiac disease are not the only people who would benefit from cutting the gluten out of their diet. There are other benefits to a gluten free diet for anyone.

Principal among these benefits are the avoidance of other potentially life altering conditions. The primary condition of course is the possibility of an onset of celiac disease with constant consumption of gluten.

In addition, gluten has been connected with autism. For those on the autism spectrum, an increase in gluten intake can possibly increase the severity of the disorder.

The Gluten Free diet could be a great help to them. While testing is still being conducted to verify the results, early indications show that lower gluten intake has positive effects as it allows for higher functioning.

Gluten Free Diet for Weight Loss

Another health benefit of living gluten free involves weight loss. For those who truly are committed to eliminating gluten, the pay-off occurs in less pizza, fried foods and beer. By cutting out these tempting items, the dieter is also cutting out foods that have high calories and are usually eaten in large quantities. Also, many desserts would also be off the menu which would lower sugar intake.

A gluten free diet is not a cure all weight loss program, but could assist along with a workout program in helping someone to reach their target. Keep in mind that there are gluten-free pizzas, beers and other treats. Therefore, the weight loss will not occur by gorging on these treats and avoiding the gluten alternatives.

The final benefits of living gluten free revolve around daily health. Studies are currently underway to determine the effects of gluten consumption on the health of the heart. While results have been mixed, some doctors have come forward to make a strong link between a gluten free diet and a healthier heart. Other studies have also shown that those who eliminate gluten intake also have more energy and are able to physically have more stamina than those who eat gluten products. Again, many of these studies are still being conducted due to the increase in popularity of gluten free diets.