Gluten-free products line shelves in plenty of grocery stores. Nowadays, you can essentially get any product without gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. When people with intolerances consume food with gluten, it can trigger unwanted symptoms.
Many people who suffer from digestive issues have jumped on the gluten-free diet as a means of relieving some of their digestive problems. But several studies suggest that unless you have a diagnosed intolerance or condition that doesn’t allow you to break down gluten, you should still consume it.
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To determine whether you have a gluten sensitivity, you can undergo testing that involves a biopsy of the intestine. The problem with this though is if you are already living a gluten-free life, then the results of the test will be inaccurate.
Another way to test gluten sensitivity is to remove gluten from the diet and reintroduce it, documenting symptoms that follow.
The problem with going gluten-free without a diagnosis is if you do choose to get tested, you could get a false positive. Second, if you have undiagnosed celiac disease, you could be causing damage to your intestines and digestive system.
When people have digestive issues, they automatically assume it’s a gluten problem, but several other issues can contribute to digestive problems including other food allergies and intolerances.
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Furthermore, going gluten-free could lead to nutritional gaps as many gluten replacements tend to be low in fiber, and fiber is an integral part of healthy digestion along with supporting other aspects of health such as cholesterol. If you are going gluten-free, it’s crucial to stalk up on fiber through fruits and vegetables.
Before embarking on a gluten-free diet, speak to your doctor about options and testing to determine any other underlying issue which could be contributing to your digestive problems.
Related:
- 10 Natural Antacids to Help With Heartburn & Better Digestion
- Short-term exposure to western diets can lead to diabetes and cardiovascular disease
Devon Andre has been involved in the health and dietary supplement industry for a number of years. Devon has written extensively for Bel Marra Health. He has a Bachelor of Forensic Science from the University of Windsor, and went on to complete a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh. Devon is keenly aware of trends and new developments in the area of health and wellness. He embraces an active lifestyle combining diet, exercise and healthy choices. By working to inform readers of the options available to them, he hopes to improve their health and quality of life.
