9. Gluten-Free Diet: Relief for Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivity
A gluten-free diet involves the elimination of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. This diet is necessary for individuals with celiac disease, an autoimmune condition in which the ingestion of gluten damages the small intestine. However, some people without celiac disease may still experience gluten sensitivity and benefit from a gluten-free diet.
Following a gluten-free diet requires careful attention to food labels and ingredients, as gluten can be found in various processed foods and even some medications. The diet primarily consists of naturally gluten-free foods, such as fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, and gluten-free grains like rice, quinoa, and buckwheat.
One of the benefits of a gluten-free diet is improved digestion and reduced inflammation for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. However, it may not offer significant health benefits for individuals without these conditions.
A potential drawback of the gluten-free diet is the increased cost and limited availability of gluten-free products. Additionally, gluten-free processed foods may be higher in sugar and fat, making it essential to focus on whole, unprocessed foods for optimal health. (9)
