What Is a Gluten-Free Diet?

It is a diet in which a gluten-free meal is consumed for a while or permanently. It is used by people who are sensitive to gluten, such as those diagnosed with celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder, during a physical exam, or those who do not have celiac disease but whose health problems have improved with a gluten-free diet.

In recent years, there has been an increase in information about gluten, gluten disorders, and gluten-free diets. The topic has been covered in the media and is viewed by some as enlightening and important information, while others consider it speculative and do not want to know.

The supply and sale of gluten-free alternatives have increased significantly, and gluten-free recipes and diet books are trendy. Because of this growing popularity, more and more people are discovering that they have celiac disease and are sensitive to gluten. If you have tested positive for celiac disease and are convinced that bread and pasta are not suitable for you, why not try gluten-free foods and see the benefits for yourself?

Note: Before starting a gluten-free lifestyle, it is recommended that you get tested by a doctor to rule out celiac disease. Why? If you follow a gluten-free diet for a while and then get tested, you will not be able to measure the likelihood of celiac disease.

Is a Gluten-Free Diet Healthy or Unhealthy?

The media likes to be biased and give headlines like “Dangerous, Bad, Nonsense”. Nutritionists and mainstream scientists are asked for their opinions and will happily cite the downsides to eliminate the “hype/trend”.

Certainly, science is advancing, but it often lags behind what individuals and nutritional leaders see. For example, they have recently learned that gluten disorders do not only affect people with celiac disease (gluten intolerance), and this is how the term gluten sensitivity was coined.

Other substances in wheat, such as fructans (FODMAPs), are currently being studied for their association with inflammation-related diseases. The Nutrition Center now acknowledges on its website that people with gluten sensitivity can experience positive results from a gluten-free diet and that it is not a misleading placebo effect.

When Will I Notice Results?

The time it takes to realize results depends on the person and the problem. For example, if the intestinal mucosa is more damaged in celiac disease, it will take longer to show effects than in the case of gluten sensitivity.

The effects of gluten sensitivity can be immediate, but the program should be followed for at least six weeks to judge the results honestly. If a gluten-free weekly menu is observed for only one week, then, of course, it means nothing.

If gluten-free does not work for you, you may tolerate gluten well. In this case, eating bread twice a day or pasta at night is still not advisable. A wheat-only lifestyle is unwise in any case, and more variety in the diet is advisable.

Are There Any Withdrawal Symptoms or Side Effects?

Yes, initially, you may experience abdominal pain, diarrhea, and withdrawal symptoms. The body (digestive system and intestinal flora) must adapt to the changes, which takes time. Also, symptoms may worsen for a while but are often short-lived and not necessarily harmful.

Will It Cause Nutritional Deficiencies?

No, not necessarily. It’s not about what you don’t eat; it’s about what comes in return. The new gluten-free diet must be balanced. For example, you are probably not iodine deficient because you get enough iodine in white fish and seaweed, but gluten-free bread can also contain excess iodine.

Additionally, eating lots of unrefined gluten-free grains, seeds, fruits, and vegetables can lead to a lack of fiber. The vitamins and minerals found in bread can be obtained from many other products. Therefore, there are many paths to roam.

Have you ever tried a gluten-free diet? Share your experience with us in the comments below!