Gluten has been creating a buzz in the past years. It leaves people wondering if they should be reduced in the diet, kept in the diet or cut it cold turkey. Can you really remove it altogether, thinking gluten is everywhere from bread to pastries to pasta to pizza crust to beer and certain spirits. It is even found in food stuff like breaded meat or fish, energy bars and salad dressings. It seems like gluten is almost impossible to avoid. It’s not, actually. However, the question remains, should we avoid gluten?
In terms of dietary guidelines, among the most consistent messages that comes about is moderation is key. One of the ways to effectively lessen gluten intake is by also lessening processed foods in the diet. Instead of having an energy bar in the morning, why don’t you prepare a smoothie rich in protein, vitamins and minerals from natural gluten-free ingredients? You can still have your bread or crackers, given they are made out of grains like amaranth, quinoa, rice or millet.
There are myriads off gluten-free choices in the market right now, but be cautious in buying. The gluten may be replaced with non-natural thickeners, extra fat or sugar to help create the flavor and texture of the original.
Gluten free or not, preferring natural and organic to processed food is always good. It all boils down to the fact that you’re better off talking to a trusted professional about any potential food intolerances, to ensure a healthy diet, full of protein, vitamins, carbohydrates and minerals.
Gluten is the devil to people suffering from gluten allergies, intolerances, and especially people with Celiac disease. If you’re not one of them, you can still have gluten, but you can try cutting it from your diet and observe the wonderful changes it brings!
