The Truth About Gluten

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I asked a question in the Core Fit Facebook Group a bit ago that got a lot of wrong answers.

 

And it’s not their fault!

 

The amount of wrong info out there about nutrition is mind-blowing.

 

The question was: Is gluten a grain, carb, protein, wheat, fat or a starch?

 

The answer is protein. Most people said wheat.
 

The fads and false claims in the health and wellness industry drive me nuts.

 

I feel like it is my duty to spread the truth… even if it steps on a few toes!

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Gluten is one of those “food fad” topics that drives me nuts. 

 

You still see “gluten-free” all over the grocery store, advertised as being healthier than other foods.

 

Here’s what you need to know:

 

  1. Some people truly have celiac disease and gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine and causes a ton of symptoms.
     

  2. Others have sensitivities and symptoms that come from eating gluten.
     

  3. If you do not have an allergy or a sensitivity, there is no reason to cut out gluten.
     

  4. Gluten is actually a group of proteins called gliadin and glutelins and is found commonly in wheat, barley and rye products.
     

  5. "There is no compelling scientific evidence that a gluten free diet will improve health or prevent disease." Dr. Robert Shmerling - Harvard 

 

Why do so many people feel healthier when they cut out gluten? 

 

Our minds are powerful and when entire industries use marketing tactics to make you believe this, it tends to work! 

 

  • It may seem like a good idea. 

  • We may think - if it’s bad for others, it might be bad for me too. 

  • So many celebrities endorse it. 

  • It’s hard to ignore hearing others who swear by it.

  • And did I mention marketing? 

 

People selling these products want to make money and will do what is necessary to sell you on the value of their product.

 

I have a suspicion that many people equate gluten with carbs and still think carbs are bad.

 

FYI - they aren’t! You need carbs too. Just remember - everything in moderation.

 

Keep in mind… people with true allergies can have severe issues with just the touch of gluten. Not just by eating pizza and bagels and things we mainly think of with gluten - but also things like sauces and frozen veggies that contain gluten.

 

 They can't just skip a donut here and there and go chug a beer lol.

 

So where do you fall in the great gluten debate of 2019??

 

I hope I’ve helped you understand that going “gluten free” is not the answer to a healthier lifestyle, unless you have an allergy or sensitivity.

 

Make sense? Comment below if you have questions or want to join the debate!

 

Better yet, go join the Core Fit Facebook group and find this post. Weigh in on the conversation there!