Health - Wellness
What To Expect When Following A Gluten-Free Diet
By ANNE TAYLOR
The gluten-free diet is mostly followed by people with food allergies or celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder that damages the digestive system when gluten is consumed. However, even people without these conditions may be sensitive to gluten, and may see positive changes when they either reduce or eliminate gluten consumption.
People who feel groggy, tired, or experience adverse side effects after eating gluten should try a gluten-free diet and see if it increases energy levels. Cutting out gluten improves digestion in general, since gluten can be difficult for the body to break down, causing digestive issues like bloating, gas, and diarrhea. However, there are also potential downsides.
Not only can a gluten-free diet be restrictive and challenging, it can completely cut off consumption of whole grains, which are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Unless you have an allergy or disease, there's no need to cut out gluten completely, and regardless, you should speak to a doctor before radically altering your diet.