People keying in “gluten free diet” into the search engines are referring to any number of specially designed diet plans for folks sensitive to anything containing the eponymous protein composite. Made from the storage proteins of wheat and related types of edible grass, including barley and rye, gluten gives elasticity to dough, helping it to rise even as it will help it keep its shape and give it a chewy texture.
Many people suffer from gluten sensitivity, and it is because of increased awareness that the search phrase “gluten free diet” is indeed popular. Symptoms are broadly varied, ranging from gastrointestinal problems to those striking the nervous system itself. Unfortunately, gluten sensitivity can develop at anytime in life, frequently as the result of genetic in addition to environmental factors.
Equally unfortunate for the people googling “gluten free diet” is the fact that these diet plans are not without a bit of controversy, namely whether oats should be excluded. Research exists that shows that while oats are gluten-free in themselves, they are frequently contaminated by grains containing gluten during distribution or processing. Additionally, there also seems to be evidence of a gluten-like protein in oats that can cause the same types of symptoms that gluten does in sufferers. Thus, getting rid of all grains and flours from the diet could be the safest way to ensure the total absence of gluten.
However, the challenges don’t end there. Nutritional deficiencies have already been noticed in those following standard gluten-free diets, so the current consensus is that enriched or fortified foods should also be sought after. Nutritional supplements are often recommended to make sure that daily requirements are met, however they should never be utilized in place of fresh whole gluten-free but nutrient-dense foods.
One final note: many medicines also contain gluten, so it is very crucial that you consult with a doctor when taking medication!
