In the first of the two-part series, we explained how gluten, a protein composite naturally present in wheat, barley, and rye, is linked with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. According to the Archives of Internal Medicine, one in 133 people has celiac disease (CD) and at least another six percent of the US population suffers from non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
However, there are several myths surrounding the gluten-free phenomenon. This series attempts to bust those myths.
Myth 1: Celiac disease and gluten intolerance/sensitivity are the same thing.
Fact: While CD is actually a hereditary autoimmune disease, being intolerant of, or sensitive to gluten means you are having an adverse reaction to gluten, and your immune system is not involved at all.
Myth 2: You should adopt a gluten-free diet to lose weight.
Fact: This is a very common misconception. Gluten does not cause weight gain, but a lack of portion control does. Instead of cutting back on gluten for the sole purpose of weight loss, try adopting a healthy diet that includes a variety of fruit, veg, whole grains, and lean protein.
Myth 3: You can self-diagnose celiac disease.
Fact: To diagnose CD, you require tests that involve blood and tissue samples. If you choose to cut out gluten before you are tested, it can influence the test results. The best course of action is to consult a doctor if you suspect you have gluten-related issues.
Head to our Food section for healthy recipes and the latest food trends.
Here are some more recipes and tips for a Gluten-Free Diet.
Read More:
How Bad Can Gluten Be?
Diet Wars: How To Pick Between Paleo, Vegan, Gluten-Free & Sugar-Free
