Gluten is a protein found in barley, rye, wheat and the derivatives of these grains. Within gluten, are four main proteins: globulins, glutelins, promalins and albumins. Promalins and glutelins are found in higher concentrations in wheat-the reason why many people associate gluten with wheat. Gluten alone is not bad for your health, however, there are people who have problems digesting gluten or are gluten sensitive so they should avoid it.
Gluten intolerance refer to wheat allergy, celiac disease as well as non-celiac gluten sensitivity. These conditions are not easy to diagnose and many people live with them unknowingly. In fact, about ninety-five percent of people with celiac disease do not know they have it. About three million have Americans celiac disease, while an estimated eighteen million people are sensitive to gluten intake.
For those that suffer from celiac or those with gluten intolerance, the available treatment at this time is a gluten-free diet. In gluten-free vegetarian diet, you have to avoid barley, rye, oats, wheat and all their derived products. The foods claim a big and ever growing business in today’s Gluten free foods Atlanta GA markets.
Many people go gluten-free to avoid the following symptoms:
- Nutritional deficiencies due to mal-absorption
- Headaches which may range from mild to severe
- Irritability and behavioral changes
- Bloating sensation in the abdomen or flatulence
- Generalized body weakness or fatigue or body aches
- Weight gain or weight loss
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Leaky gut syndrome
To maximize the health and nutritional benefits of going gluten-free, you should adopt a diet filled with a selection of naturally gluten-free foods like vegetables, lean proteins, fruits and gluten-free grains. To stay balance on the gluten-free diet, Food and Drug Administration encourages everyone to: Avoid overly processed foods.
- Keep saturated fat and refined sugar intakes at minimum
- Perform daily exercise for managing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle
Benefits of going gluten-free
- Reduces constipation, bloating
- Boosts an overall health of body, mind and spirit
It is worth noting that a gluten-free diet is by no means a cure at all. Individuals with gluten intolerance should schedule an appointment with their doctors. They should consult a trained healthcare professional or see dietitians knowledgeable in gluten-free diet and celiac disease for the management of this autoimmune condition.
