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Gluten sensitivity is becoming very common of late, but some people have become skeptical about it. Is it really just a fad or something worthy of our attention? Research shows that Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS) is real and is a very serious condition.
People believed to be suffering from NCGS resorted to gluten-free diet or often called a wheat free diet. Gluten is commonly found in rice, millet, cereals, pasta, waffles and bread. However, before you jump in on and get into this diet, you have to know that gluten free diet is often associated to some serious health risks. This type of diet is not applicable to everyone because it is said that gluten contains some important elements that are vital to the body. We all know that the basic food intake our body requires everyday, should be rich in protein and nutrients since it gives energy and increase productivity. Going on a gluten-free diet may lead to deficiencies in iron, calcium, thiamine, riboflavin and niacin. A classic example of foods that one would forego are fruits and vegetables which are rich sources of fiber and vitamins. Not eating enough of these will result to constipation and poor immune system.
This leads us to the question, when is gluten-free diet good for one’s health? This form of diet while essential and a must for people who suffer from gluten sensitivity also has good benefits apart from avoiding the occurrence of symptoms. Gluten- free products help us to lose weight. Obviously, this is a big yes! If someone is conscious and aware enough to look for the labels with less gluten content or replaces and substitutes some food products with less gluten ingredients, then one can see significant results in their weight loss. However, be reminded of the health implications of this diet program; again, this is not something you do only to lose weight. This is something you do to ease the symptoms of NCGS. According to the National Foundation for Celia c Awareness, eliminating gluten reduces stomach upset, diarrhea, abdominal cramping, gas, bloating and constipation. People with gluten sensitivity reports that eating gluten causes headaches, foggy thinking, and even depression. What makes this condition worse is that it often does not have a specific symptoms. One patient with the same condition may show different reactions to gluten and the severity of the symptoms vary. According to studies conducted to understand NCGS better, gluten free products helped autistic children to improve their behavior significantly.
Other health benefits of having gluten free diet:
> Improved mood and relieves fatigue.
> Good for people suffering from inflammatory diseases and autoimmune disorders.
> Aid in curing skin problems like acne and eczema.
So is gluten-free diet a fad or for real? You can do more research about this subject and you will arrive at the same result. It is something that helps people who suffer the symptoms for real. However, before you get into this diet program, make sure to consult a professional so you can weigh all your options.
