What is Gluten? Why it's a big deal for your health?

 

Everyone has a view about Gluten but some are discussing how important Gluten is. Well, some just don't think it is a big deal. Now Gluten is equally important as it keeps the consistency of the food and it also promotes a healthy gut. But gluten also has shown some Negative Side effects that affect some people who are prone to Gluten Intolerance or Celiac Disease. Before concluding, let's first understand the purpose of Gluten in the human body, or let's put it in other words. What the hell is Gluten doing in your Body?

What is Gluten?

Gluten is a product of Protein components that binds the food that ultimately gives a stretchy substance. The two of the protein found in Gluten is Glutenin and Gliadin. Gluten is of utmost importance in keeping the structure of the food. A dough without gluten wouldn't just stick together; it will just rip off easily. But it also has Negative effects that have made some people too skeptical.

Gluten also acts like a prebiotic that is beneficial in providing good bacteria in a healthy human gut. A healthy gut is associated with good bacteria that helps in breaking down the food in the digestive tract.

When you have to worry about Gluten?

Certain people may have problem with Gluten, especially who have Wheat Allergy, Gluten sensitivity, and Celiac disease.

If you have Celiac Disease, then you must go for a Gluten-free diet. At least 1% of the population suffers from this disease and, it is worst from of Gluten intolerance. It is an autoimmune disease that reacts to gluten as a foreign invader and causes acute symptoms like Constipation and Diarrhoea.

What food to avoid for gluten intolerance?

Avoid Grains:

Some grains are naturally infused with gluten components so make sure to avoid or consume less to overcome any complications of Gluten Intolerance. Avoid grains such as Wheat, Rye, Barley, Wheat berries, Triticale, Kamut, Farina, Farro, and Processed Oats are some of the grains which are natural components of Gluten.

Avoid Bread:

Most of the Bread, Wraps, and Crackers include gluten in them so make sure that you avoid Bread that has gluten. Avoid White bread, whole wheat bread, potato bread, rye bread, sourdough bread, wheat crackers, whole wheat wraps, flour tortillas, flatbread, and bagels.

Avoid Bakery Products:

Bakery Products are often made with gluten-containing grains such as wheat or rye grains. If you are highly sensitive to gluten food then avoid Cakes, Pastries, Doughnuts, Cookies, Pancakes, Muffins, and much more.

Avoid certain drinks:

Some drinks are brewed with ingredients that contain gluten. There are some of the drinks that you should avoid such as Beer, Drink mixes, Processed Chocolate milk, Wine Coolers, and Premade Coffee drinks.

What foods can you eat without worrying about Gluten?

Even though you feel that half of the food that you usually eat has to be cut down. But there are also other food items that you can eat from your pantry that do not have gluten.

Below are the foods that you can eat even if you have Gluten Intolerance or Celiac Disease.

1.   Fruits and Vegetables

2.   Animal Proteins

3.   Nuts and Seeds

4.   Beans and Legumes

5.   Gluten-Free Grains: Quinoa, Buckwheat, millet, Oats, Wild Rise, Brown rice, and Corn.

When you are trying a new diet you need to keep in mind a balanced day-to-day nutritional value so as to avoid Nutrition Deficiency. Gluten has its advantages and its disadvantages. You should consult a doctor before starting a Gluten-free diet.