Do I really have to go gluten-free?  

Nope!  A common misconception is that gluten is bad for everyone.  But for those with a gluten sensitivity, gluten can be a huge drag on your health, energy, and mood.  It’s worth experimenting with gluten-free in order to get a better read on how sensitive you are to gluten.  

So why is gluten so bad? 

Gluten is a super-tough protein that the body is not able to fully digest.  For those with a gluten sensitivity, the body reacts to gluten with the same inflammatory response as with other hard-to-breakdown substances such as pollutants and artificial preservatives.  And if you’re consuming gluten on a regular basis, that means your body is constantly battling gluten.  In other words, you experience chronic inflammation.

Here are some other benefits many people find when they reduce or eliminate gluten from their diet:

• Improved nutrient absorption: When the small intestine is inflamed due to gluten intolerance, it can impair nutrient absorption, leading to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals. By eliminating gluten, individuals can improve their absorption of essential nutrients.

• Better energy levels: Some people report feeling more energetic and less fatigued after adopting a gluten-free diet.

• Improved mood: There is some evidence to suggest that gluten intolerance may contribute to depression and anxiety in some individuals. By eliminating gluten, individuals may experience an improvement in their mood.

• Weight loss and management: While a gluten-free diet is not inherently a weight loss diet, some people may experience weight loss or better weight management by adopting a gluten-free diet. This may be due to reduced cravings for high-calorie, high-carb foods and improved insulin sensitivity.

• Reduced joint pain and stiffness: Some studies have suggested that gluten may contribute to joint pain and stiffness, particularly in individuals with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

• Improved skin health: Gluten intolerance can cause skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis. By eliminating gluten, individuals may see an improvement in their skin health.

While gluten may not be bad for everyone, reducing or eliminating it from your diet can have numerous health benefits. Adopting a gluten-free diet may require some experimentation and adjustment, but the potential health benefits make it worthwhile to see what gluten-free can do for you.