Due to increased awareness about different medical conditions and variety of dietary advice offered over the internet, world over increasingly gulten free diet is becoming very popular. From local shops to super markets, carts are flooded with gluten free products with some products claiming to be made at homes while other industries. In this article, we'll share some insights into benefits as well as risks of Gluten free diet and find out whether these foods really meant for general population.
What is gluten free?
Gluten, a protein composite found in food items such as wheat, barley, rye etc., affects genetically susceptible individuals worldwide. Gluten free products are only meant for these gluten sensitive patients. Celiac disease , a gluten-sensitive autoimmune disease of the small intestine, is one such condition which requires a life-long gluten free diet. The prevalence of Celiac disease has been estimated to be approximately 0.5%-1% in different parts of the world (as per the estimates published in 2012).
When an individual with Celiac disease ingests gluten (directly or indirectly) the lining of the small intestine, known as the “villi” (finger-like projections), becomes flattened over time. Once the villi are damaged, the absorption of essential nutrients is affected, leading to malnutrition and a number of other related illnesses which affect almost all organ systems of the body. Celiac disease patients may present gastrointestinal symptoms, extra-intestinal symptoms or in some cases no symptoms at all. The most common symptoms include gastrointestinal-related symptoms such as diarrhea, fatty diarrhea and weight loss (primarily due to malabsorption). Nearly, 50% of these patients present extra-intestinal symptoms, such as anemia, osteoporosis, dermatitis neurological problems and dental problems.
It is safe to say that Celiac is not an allergy, and if left untreated it can be life-threatening. The only known and available treatment is following a gluten-free diet i.e. the person has to completely remove all the sources of gluten from the diet. But given the presence of gluten in almost all the food items regularly consumed, adjusting your diet can be an overwhelming task.
In a Gluten free diet one has to eliminate all kinds of processed foods like bakery items, readymade sweets, chocolates, biscuits, cookies, ready-made soups etc. from one’s diet.
But coming on to the important question that what are the risks associated with gluten free diet i.e. why it should be taken by only those who need it. Everything, be it love, trust, medicines, etc. has their pros and cons. Similarly, following a gluten-free diet has both its advantages and disadvantages.
The good side
Gluten free diet reduces the damage and inflammation of the intestinal tract, which heals the mucosal lining. When the mucosal lining gets healed, the absorption of nutrients increases which decreases the risk of developing nutritional deficiencies. This makes a person healthy and lively. Higher quality grains like millets, ragi, quinoa, maize, etc. are introduced into the diet which increases the variety and nutritive value as well. Since, the patient is advised about the cross contamination concept and hidden gluten sources, they become more aware of food and develop habits of reading the food label. This also makes them aware about the other harmful components like excess sodium, trans. fat, cholesterol, etc. because munching on gluten free yet sodium rich foods is also equally harmful. So, following a diet which contains less of processed foods is healthier way to live for a person suffering from Celiac disease
Not so good side
Gluten free diet restricts all the wheat and wheat products. Due to this restriction, fear of negative reactions and some myths, people stop consuming cereals and other gluten free flours also which leads to reduced carbohydrate consumption and thus malnutrition. Eliminating too many foods and consumption of a nutrient deficient diet can cause weight loss. Lack of fiber from traditional sources can lead to digestive issues like constipation, irritable bowel disease, ulcers, etc. Also, gluten-free products may contain higher levels of fat and sugar, which often lead to weight gain.
Considering the risks associated one should consult a nutritionist nearby before going for a gluten free diet to ensure that the nutritional requirements of your body are fulfilled.
Source: articlesbase
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