Did you know that gluten is a protein composite found in wheat and related grains, and causes health problems in sufferers of celiac disease and some cases of wheat allergy. However, do not be alarmed, it affects only people who are allergic to wheat and related grains. For those interested in knowing more about gluten, here are some basic facts to keep you abreast. What is a gluten free diet, and how does it affect our everyday lives? A gluten-free diet is a diet that excludes gluten, a protein composite found in wheat and related grains, including barley and rye. Gluten causes health problems in sufferers of celiac disease (CD) and some cases of wheat allergy. For those diagnosed with celiac disease, a strict gluten-free diet constitutes the only effective treatment to date. There is ongoing research and debate on non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Some believe that there are health benefits to gluten-free eating for the general population, but there is no published experimental evidence to support such claims. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that attacks the small intestine due to the presence of gluten, for which a gluten-free diet is the only medically-accepted treatment. The disease affects an estimated 1% of adults worldwide and appears to be on the increase, but because of the rare occurrence of symptoms, it is believed only 5-10 percent of cases are diagnosed. Although there is no evidence to suggest a single definitive threshold, a daily gluten intake of less than 10 mg is unlikely to cause significant histological abnormalities.
Gluten-free fad diets are popular and even endorsed by some celebrities. People buy gluten-free food because they think it will help them lose weight, because they seem to feel better or because they mistakenly believe they are sensitive to gluten. However the gluten-free diet is not recommended as a means to eat healthier or to lose weight. Neither should it be undertaken to diagnose one’s own symptoms, because tests for celiac disease are reliable only if the patient has been consuming gluten. Unless great care is taken, a gluten-free diet can lack the vitamins, minerals, and fiber which are found in wheat, barley, rye, kamut, and other gluten containing whole grains and may be too high in fat and calories. Processed gluten-free foods are often higher in salt, sugar, glycemic index, transfats and other processed fats. If you love free stuff and likes to receive the best gluten free food at your door step, browse through, and abide by the terms and conditions.
