By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D.
Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries.
With the rising popularity of gluten-free diets in recent years, you might be wondering if you should make the switch. Are gluten-free diets really healthier? Can they help with weight loss? In this post, we’ll explore these questions and more, so you can better understand the potential benefits and drawbacks of transitioning to a gluten-free diet.
Is it healthier to have a gluten-free diet? What happens when you switch to gluten-free?
It’s not necessarily healthier to follow a gluten-free diet unless you have a gluten intolerance or sensitivity. If you experience discomfort after consuming gluten, it’s best to speak with your doctor about your symptoms and whether transitioning to a gluten-free diet is right for you.
When switching to a gluten-free diet, you may experience various symptoms, including improved digestion, increased hunger, dizziness, nausea, and others. These can be expected as your body adjusts and should resolve within a few weeks. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult with your doctor to rule out other potential causes or deficiencies.
What are the benefits of eating gluten-free? What are the benefits of a gluten-free diet for non-celiacs?
For individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, eating only gluten-free foods can help alleviate uncomfortable symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and headaches. However, for those without these conditions, there is currently limited evidence to suggest that a gluten-free diet offers significant benefits. If you are considering transitioning to a gluten-free diet but can tolerate gluten, it's recommended to first eliminate highly processed foods before cutting out gluten. This approach ensures you don't exclude nutrient-dense food groups unnecessarily.
Will I lose weight if I stop eating gluten? Does cutting gluten help belly fat?
You may experience weight loss if you eliminate gluten, but this is typically observed in non-celiac individuals following a gluten-free diet. For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, weight gain can occur after cutting out gluten. This is because your body begins to heal from the damage caused by gluten, allowing it to better absorb nutrients from food. While this is a positive development for overall health, it may also result in some weight gain.
For non-celiacs, research suggests that cutting gluten may contribute to weight loss, particularly around the belly area. However, studies indicate that this weight loss is more likely caused by the reduced consumption of highly processed foods commonly eliminated by those opting for a gluten-free diet, rather than the absence of gluten.
Is gluten bad for diabetics? Does eating gluten-free help with diabetes?
Gluten is not necessarily bad for diabetics, but gluten is often found in foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates, both of which can cause blood sugar spikes. There is no evidence to suggest that a gluten-free diet can help manage diabetes symptoms. Instead, it is recommended that diabetics focus on eating whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.
Is gluten-free bread healthy? Is gluten-free bread better for you? Is all sourdough bread gluten-free?
Gluten-free bread is not necessarily healthier than regular bread and may actually contain fewer nutrients than traditional bread. However, for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, gluten-free bread is the best choice.
While traditional sourdough bread is not gluten-free, it generally contains less gluten than other types of bread. This is due to the long fermentation process, which helps break down some of the naturally occurring gluten. For those with gluten intolerance, gluten-free sourdough bread is also available and can be a great alternative.
Is gluten-free pasta healthy? Is gluten-free pasta better for you? What type of pasta is gluten-free?
Like other gluten-free foods, gluten-free pasta is not inherently healthier than regular pasta. However, gluten-free pasta made from whole grains or legumes can offer more nutrients than traditional white pasta. Gluten-free pasta is often made from alternative flours, such as corn flour, rice flour, and almond flour. Other popular gluten-free pasta options include chickpea pasta and lentil pasta, which tend to be higher in protein and fiber.
Where can I buy the best gluten-free bread and pasta online?
At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh baked goods that are delivered directly to your door. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for fresh pasta, breads, and pastries. Our gluten-free breads and pastas include Gluten-Free Country Loaf, Gluten-Free Sourdough Loaf, Gluten-Free Fresh Linguine, and Gluten-Free Cheese Tortellini. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods.
About the Author
Dr. Jorge has been a public health researcher for many years, holding both a Bachelor's degree and a Ph.D. in Chemistry. They presently work as a medical writer and love being able to assist others in understanding various health and scientific topics.
This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns.
