Even though gluten can be a serious concern for some, particularly those suffering from the celiac disease, it has come under fire by even those who aren’t intolerant to it. However, there is a lot of confusion surrounding gluten, which may make it difficult for you to decide if you should embrace it or shun it.
Gluten is basically a protein present in grains such as semolina, rye, wheat, and barley. Depending on whether you are intolerant to gluten or not, either your body identifies it as a dangerous substance or issues a free pass. If you have self-diagnosed yourself or advised by a top gastroenterologist in Karachi, Lahore or Islamabad as being sensitive to gluten, here are a few things that may happen if you eliminate gluten from your diet:
1-You Miss Out On Important Nutrients:
Even though gluten may not be a repository of key nutrients on its own, the whole grains that people cut of their diet are really nutritious. Unlike a lot of gluten-free food options, wheat-based products are often fortified with vitamin B and iron. Gluten-free diets are often centered on low nutrient-dense starches that are highly processed, such as tapioca flour and rice. In addition to not having iron and B vitamins, these foods also do not have high fiber content.
2-Untimely Cravings:
While many people adopt the gluten-free diet in hopes of losing weight, this claim has not been backed by science. In fact, it may have the reverse effect as cutting out gluten without medical necessity may make you crave food more and make you overeat. Basically, when you restrict yourself, your body enters the survival mode and this can result in uncontrollable cravings and binge eating.
3-You Might Experience Constipation More Often:
Since whole-grain foods such as bread and pasta are one of the best sources of fiber, cutting them out from your diet without introducing an alternate source of fiber may adversely affect your digestive system, leading to constipation. To avoid this issue, increase your intake of legumes and leafy green.
4-You Will Get More Of Some Key Nutrients:
While it may seem we are contradicting ourselves, we are simply stating what science has found. Just as some studies say that people on a gluten-free diet miss out on key nutrients, others say that people suffering from celiac disease following this diet get more of magnesium, zinc, calcium, phosphate, vitamin C, folate, and other vitamins, minerals, and fiber remain the same.
5-Your Digestion Will Improve:
Whether or not you are a proponent of the gluten-free diet, science says that all carbs, including grains, are really hard to digest. That’s why the people who switch to a gluten-free diet often report improved digestions.
If you feel you are sensitive to gluten, consult your doctor right away. You can find and book an appointment with top gastroenterologist in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad through oladoc.com. You can also call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT Doctor for your health concerns.
