Benefits and disadvantages of avoiding gluten in the daily diet
The gluten-free diet has become increasingly popular in the last few years due to its association with the improvement of certain health problems, especially in people suffering from autoimmune diseases such as coeliac disease and non-coeliac gluten sensitivity. However, a growing number of people are opting for a gluten-free diet for other reasons, such as personal preference.
Avoiding gluten involves eliminating or substituting all the foods that contain the protein found in wheat, barley, rye and other similar grains. In this article, we will explore some of the main benefits of a gluten-free diet. From improving digestive symptoms to reducing the risk of chronic diseases, there are many reasons to consider a gluten-free diet, even if it is not an easy task.
Advantages of eliminating gluten
- Improve gastrointestinal signs: People with coeliac disease often experience abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhoea after ingesting gluten. Eliminating gluten from the diet can improve these symptoms. If you suffer from any of these reactions, find out more about how to detect coeliac disease or gluten intolerance.
- Improved nutrient absorption: Coeliac disease can damage the lining of the small intestine, making it difficult to absorb nutrients. Cutting gluten out of the diet can help repair the damage and improve nutrient absorption. For people with coeliac disease, the mucosa lining the small intestine begins to regenerate and reabsorb nutrients again.
- Helps with weight management: some people may experience weight loss when following a gluten-free diet, as many processed foods containing gluten are high in calories and low in nutrients. But be careful not to substitute these products for those with more sugar or fat.
- Improves mental health: it has been shown that people with coeliac disease have an increased risk of depression and anxiety. Eliminating gluten from the diet can improve mental health in some people.
Following a gluten-free diet correctly is no easy task, but it is a lifestyle full of essential benefits for people with coeliac disease, gluten intolerance or ataxia.
Downsides of cutting out gluten completely if you are not a celiac sufferer
Recently, there has been an exponential increase in the number of people who have decided to adopt a low-gluten or gluten-free diet with the sole aim of improving their health in some way. Even the image of a “healthy lifestyle” associated with the avoidance of flour and other gluten-containing foods has been promoted.
It is important to know that although they are not necessarily important for health, foods containing gluten provide essential fibre for the diet, vitamins, minerals, etc. In addition, the definitive elimination of gluten can lead to protein intolerance, which is when nutritional problems begin.
- Dietary restriction: Following a gluten-free diet can be restrictive and limit the food choices available. Many foods contain gluten, including breads, pasta, biscuits and cakes. Discover all our gluten-free and allergen-free products.
- May be more expensive: many gluten-free food items are pricier than their gluten-containing equivalents, which can make the gluten-free diet more costly. Why do people with coeliac condition pay more in the shopping basket?
- Eating out with coeliac condition: it can be difficult to follow a gluten-free diet, especially when eating out. Gluten is often found in many foods that may not seem obvious, such as salad dressings, sauces and soups.
- Lack of nutrients: some gluten-free foods may have fewer nutrients than their gluten-containing alternatives. For example, gluten-free foods may have less fibre, iron and B vitamins. This is why Adpan offers products that are rich in fibre.
In overall, following a gluten-free diet is full of benefits for those with coeliac disease or non-coeliac gluten sensitivity. However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks and ensure that the diet is balanced and nutritious by working with a healthcare professional.