Myths About the Gluten-Free Diet
By Lana Bandoim
People with celiac disease and gluten intolerance have to follow the gluten-free diet. However, there are many myths about this diet that confuse people. Consider the following misconceptions and do not spread them.
Myth: The Gluten-Free Diet Helps Weight Loss
Although some people on the gluten-free diet lose weight, others actually gain weight. Many things can cause this, so it is important to understand that switching to a gluten-free diet does not automatically make the scale lower. Some packaged and processed gluten-free products have a lot of sugar, fat and carbohydrates. They can make people gain weight and are not a healthy option.
Myth: Everyone Needs the Gluten-Free Diet
If you have celiac disease or gluten intolerance, then the gluten-free diet is a requirement. However, healthy people do not need to make the switch. Some people view the gluten-free diet as a fashionable trend and want to join it. Going gluten-free is a commitment and not a fad.
Myth: All Gluten-Free Food Is Healthy
This myth has confused many people and started arguments. Not all gluten-free food is healthy, and it is important to read ingredients. There are gluten-free cakes, cookies and donuts loaded with sugar, fat and carbohydrates. They are not healthy, and they will not help you lose weight.
Parts of the gluten-free diet can be considered healthy, such as eating more fruit and vegetables. However, do not make assumptions about packaged and processed gluten-free food. It can still be filled with trans fats, salt, sugar or chemicals.
Myth: Gluten Is Easy to Eliminate
Although the food industry and brands have created more gluten-free options in recent years, many people still struggle to eliminate gluten completely from their diets. Gluten can hide in a variety of products ranging from chewing gum to mustard. In addition, wheat and other gluten grains have many names. It is hard to memorize all of them and pick them out on a label.
It is important to read labels carefully and check them periodically. Some brands change recipes and introduce new ingredients that may not be safe for those on the gluten-free diet. Call the manufacturer and ask questions about confusing labels.
The gluten-free diet is surrounded by many myths. Do not spread them and try to educate people about this diet. If you have celiac disease or gluten intolerance, consider talking to a doctor or nutritionist about diet changes and get help.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Cary, N.C.