Essential Points to Ponder in Gluten-Free Dieting
Going Gluten-Free: Understanding the Implications
A gluten-free diet is not just a trend; it can be a necessity for those with celiac disease, wheat allergy, or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Approximately 0.4% of the U.S. population has celiac disease, a genetic autoimmune disorder that affects over 1 in 100 people worldwide. For these individuals, a gluten-free diet is the only treatment.
For those with celiac disease, managing the condition can be challenging. Patients often perceive a high treatment burden, including difficulty in eating outside the home, increased cost, and increased time in food preparation. Dietitians knowledgeable in Celiac disease and the gluten-free diet play an important role in helping individuals navigate these challenges.
A study found that the perception of treatment burden in Celiac disease is higher than in other common conditions, second only to end-stage renal disease patients on dialysis. One reason for this is the cost of gluten-free substitutes, which can be almost 2 1/2 times more expensive than regular products. Additionally, purchasing or preparing food for a gluten-free diet may take more time due to the need to determine which items are gluten-free.
However, a gluten-free diet can offer significant benefits for those with certain autoimmune diseases. It can help diminish symptoms associated with dermatitis herpetiformis, irritable bowel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, Type 1 diabetes, thyroiditis, and psoriasis.
Beyond medical diagnoses, people choose a gluten-free diet for various reasons, including managing thyroid health, reducing inflammation, improving insulin control and weight management, alleviating symptoms of non-celiac gluten sensitivity, and as part of a broader interest in healthier eating habits and avoiding processed foods.
It's important to note that going gluten-free does not necessarily mean adopting a healthier diet. Gluten is found in foods that contribute nutrients and fiber to a healthy diet. Therefore, it's crucial to replace gluten-containing processed foods with whole, naturally gluten-free foods like fruits, vegetables, meats, and plain rice.
Before going gluten-free, it's essential to consult a doctor. Diagnostic tests require active gluten consumption, and a formal consultation, diagnosis, and recommendation from a physician are necessary.
For resources on understanding Celiac disease and the gluten-free diet, Beyond Celiac and the Celiac Disease Foundation are good places to start. If you will be the only gluten-free person in your household, consider the burden of preparing separate gluten-free food. When reintroducing gluten into your diet after being gluten-free, do so with caution as your body may have difficulty digesting gluten and fructan.
In summary, a gluten-free diet can offer significant benefits for those with certain autoimmune diseases, but it's important to approach it with careful consideration and a focus on whole, naturally gluten-free foods. Consulting a doctor is necessary before making any dietary changes, especially if you suspect you may have celiac disease or a wheat allergy.
The benefits of a gluten-free diet extend beyond managing autoimmune diseases, as some individuals choose it for reasons such as managing thyroid health, reducing inflammation, and improving insulin control. This diet, however, should be supplemented with science-based nutrition for overall health-and-wellness, which can involve fitness-and-exercise routines for balanced health. It's crucial to consult a doctor before making any dietary changes, as proper diagnosis and recommendation are essential for maintaining nutrition and health.
