Sunday, September 9, 2012

What is Gluten Free and What if Any Are The Health Benefits?

By Lee Larossier


Many foods contain the protein gluten. You can find it in some of your favorites including pizza (crust), cookies, bread and foods containing rye, wheat and barley grains.

When gluten is consumed, an immune reaction is triggered in the small intestines. The inner surface of the small intestine is damaged and certain nutrients are no longer able to be absorbed.

In addition to this effect, the colon may also become compromised. The two most prominent symptoms of gluten allergy are often abdominal pain and diarrhea, though a variety of other symptoms is common. These include malnutrition, fatigue and vomiting. When these symptoms occur a gluten free diet may be recommended by your doctor.

What is gluten free? Gluten-based foods are those which are made using wheat, barley, spelt, durum and rye. Foods made with bulgur, triticale, semolina, farina and graham flour also contain gluten. Many other foods also have gluten in them so, when following a gluten free diet, you must always check the food label to ensure that it does not contain this protein in any form.

In addition, look to see if the foods you are eating were processed in a facility which makes products containing these grains. Foods that fall into this category include beers, cereals, salad dressing and soups.

Food to eat when following a gluten free diet include tapioca, buckwheat, arrowroot, cornmeal and pure corn tortillas. Fresh fish, meats and poultry don't contain gluten, although breaded, marinated or batter-coated versions often do. Fruits, vegetables, rice, potatoes and most dairy products are also gluten free.

The answer to the general question, "what is gluten free" involves asking that very question specifically for every item on your menu or diet.

The gluten allergy manifests itself in your small intestine. Specifically, when you are allergic to gluten, consuming the gluten protein has a negative impact on the many minuscule hair-like projections (known as vili) that form along the inner wall of the small intestine. The villi are specialized structures that help the body absorb certain vitamins, minerals and nutrients.

When you eat gluten and are allergic to it, the villi are damaged and the body is no longer able to properly absorb the necessary nutrients.

Gluten allergies require medical diagnosis and proper intervention: blood tests and, in some cases, a biopsy of the small intestine. If you think you may be suffering from the effects of a gluten allergy, consult your doctor. Once the symptoms are alleviated, you will notice an amazing difference in how you feel.




About the Author:



0 comments:

Post a Comment