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Is Gluten Bad For You?


Grade

C


Short answer

Gluten can be bad for you—but only if you have celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or a wheat allergy. Otherwise, it is a good source of nutrients and will benefit those who do not have these issues.

Grade

C


Long answer

Thinking about going gluten free? It’s a popular choice these days and with many grocery stores and restaurants catering to the growing number of people choosing this lifestyle, it’s an easier one to make. But do you really need to go gluten free?

Gluten is a protein found in barley, rye, and wheat, and can also be found lurking in countless processed foods. For those with gluten intolerance, eating these foods can cause a few problems. Consuming it can spark nausea, diarrhea, and in the case of wheat allergies, even anaphylaxis. Individuals with the latter issue need to carry an EpiPen (epinephrine injector) to prevent suffocation.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of gluten intolerance, have your doctor or gastroenterologist check it out. But since there is nothing inherently bad about it, there is no need to jump on the gluten-free bandwagon if you are not. Gluten flour is actually high in protein, iron, and low in fat, and the foods made with it provide your body with much-needed carbohydrates, fiber and B vitamins. Many people mistakenly think that gluten is in all grains and therefore cut out that food group entirely. In doing so, they are missing out on the vital nutrients their bodies need, and may end up feeling worse than they believed they did before.

The verdict? Gluten is bad for you if your body truly can’t tolerate it, but good for you if you are allergy free!


Possible short-term side effects

  • if gluten sensitive:
  • bloating
  • diarrhea
  • nausea / vomiting
  • cramping
  • constipation
  • headaches
  • fatigue
  • anaphylaxis

Possible long-term side effects

  • if gluten sensitive:
  • anemia
  • bone loss
  • malnutrition
  • delayed puberty (teens)
  • osteoporosis

Ingredients to be aware of

  • gliadin protein
  • glutenin protein

Big is gluten bad for you

Benefits

  • great source of many nutrients



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Written by Healthy Living 35 | 12-27-2015

12-27-2015
Written by Healthy Living 35
Suggest improvement or correction




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