Should You Avoid Gluten?
Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, has become a controversial topic in the health and wellness world. While some may tolerate gluten without issues, there are growing concerns about its widespread presence in our diets today, rightfully so.
Here Are a Few Reasons to Limit Gluten and Wheat-containing Foods:
1. Glyphosate in Gluten Products
Glyphosate, a chemical herbicide often used in farming, is commonly sprayed on wheat crops as a desiccant before harvest. This means many gluten-containing products are exposed to glyphosate, which has been linked to various health concerns, such as disruptions in gut function. Glyphosate has been shown to reduce beneficial bacteria in the gut (bifidobacteria, lactobacillus), and increase the bad bacteria (E. coli, c. diff). Glyphosate has also be shown to disrupt energy and lipid metabolism, the circulatory system, vitamin absorption and has connections to possible cancer risks.
2. Higher Gluten Content Than in the Past
Modern wheat has been bred to contain higher levels of gluten than the wheat our ancestors consumed. This increase can make it more difficult for some people to digest gluten, leading to a rise in gluten sensitivity, bloating, and other digestive discomforts.
3. Fortification of Nutrients
Many gluten-containing products, especially refined wheat products, are fortified with synthetic vitamins and minerals to replace nutrients lost during processing. However, these synthetic forms may not be as beneficial or easily absorbed as the naturally occurring vitamins and minerals found in whole foods. In some cases, synthetic vitamins and minerals can be problematic than beneficial.
4. Gluten Consumption Has Been Linked to Various Conditions
One disorder that has been shown to be connected to gluten consumption is leaky gut. Leaky gut happens where the gut lining becomes too permeable, or too damaged, and allows foreign substances into the blood stream. Leaky gut has been linked to thyroid disorders, neuropathy, depression and more. In addition, gluten consumption has been associated with neurological and psychiatric dysregulation, neuropathy, nervous system dysregulation, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorder, depression in the elderly population, and more.
Recommended Gluten-Free Alternatives
Pasta
Bread
Wraps
Lettuce wraps - using lettuce as the wrap
Wrap Up
While gluten may not be problematic for everyone, factors like glyphosate exposure, changes in wheat production, nutrient fortification, and associated disorders suggest it's worth considering how much gluten you consume, or if it is more beneficial to eliminate from the diet. For those with sensitivities, digestive issues, and other medical conditions, reducing gluten intake may support better gut health and therefore overall wellness. By understanding the way gluten may impact our health, we can make more informed choices about whether it has a place in our diets.