A new year is the perfect time to make the leap to a gluten-free diet! But why? What is gluten, and is it actually unhealthy? What are the benefits of going gluten-free?
We’re here to help!
What Is Gluten?
Gluten is a collection of proteins found in wheat (as well as other grains such as barley and rye). These proteins are highly elastic which gives bread and other baked goods strength and rise. They are also resistant to the enzymes designed to break them down within your digestive tract, which can lead to negative health reactions.
Put simply, wheat sensitivities, allergies and celiac disease are immune responses to the gluten protein in wheat in varying severities.
Who Should Go Gluten-Free?
If you have a gluten allergy, sensitivity or celiac disease it’s clear that going completely gluten-free is needed.
Because the gluten protein can be inflammatory and worsen symptoms and flare-ups, you may also consider a gluten-free diet if you have an autoimmune disorder, bowel disorder such as IBS, or Crohn’s, and other conditions including fibromyalgia, endometriosis and schizophrenia.
Is The Gluten-Free Diet For Everyone?
There are new studies that suggest that we may not be able to handle the amount of gluten in the average North American diet, as well as the modifications to the modern wheat plant.
And while gluten-free products aren’t always inherently healthier, it can help us cut back on highly processed foods and replace normal go-to fast foods with healthier options.
Less bloating, fatigue, joint pain, water weight… removing the inflammatory effects of gluten from your diet can help anyone!
In Summary
Going gluten-free can be intimidating and difficult to commit to. That’s why we’re coming alongside you, to encourage and support, as you start a new journey in this new year! Be sure to sign up for our newsletter and follow us on our socials!
*If you are going off gluten for the first time, it is important to note that you may not see the full benefits and ease of symptoms in the first couple months, as it can take a bit for gluten to be out your system.
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