Gluten-Free Diet — When and How
Gluten = wheat, rye, barley protein. Celiac (1% population): gut damage, lifelong avoidance. Gluten sensitivity: ambiguous diagnosis, restriction may help. Healthy people don't benefit from avoiding gluten.
Celiac Symptoms
Abdominal pain, diarrhea/constipation, bloating, weight loss, chronic fatigue, iron+B12+folate deficiencies, dermatitis herpetiformis (skin rash). Test: anti-tTG IgA + intestinal biopsy.
Gluten-Free Practice
Eat: rice, corn, quinoa, buckwheat, potato, all vegetables-fruit, meat, fish, eggs, dairy. Avoid: wheat, rye, barley, oats (often cross-contaminated). Label-reading critical — hidden gluten everywhere.
Avoid the Fad Trap
In healthy people, gluten-free diet packed with processed 'gluten-free bread/cookies' adds calories, drops fiber. No medical reason = no benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gluten sensitivity real?▼
Controversial. Some have real symptoms; placebo gluten-free also relieves — FODMAPs may be primary trigger.
Scientific References
- Catassi C (2013) Non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Nutrients.
This content is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. Consult your physician or a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.