Why is it that so many people want to jump on the “ailment” bandwagon? Even when the facts are presented, we still refuse to see the truth in the matter.

Gluten & Grain in the gut

Formally called non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), gluten sensitivity is a completely different condition from celiac disease. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system triggers an attack on the intestines with the presence of gluten.

The symptoms are similar and do overlap. However, these are two unique conditions with different responses going on in the body. Celiac disease is a known autoimmune disorder. The body’s immune system triggers an attack on the intestines in the presence of gluten. Whereas, we do not know what happens in the body with NCGS.

As noted, 1% of the American population is diagnosed with celiac disease. Having said that, around 6 % of the U.S. population is thought to have non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). This is a small population group.

Myths about Gluten

One myth is that gluten is bad for you. Grains containing gluten, such as barley and rye are whole grains providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals to our diet. Also, gluten-free whole grains, like buckwheat, rice, quinoa, sorghum, and oats provide similar benefits.

There is no test for gluten sensitivity. Gluten sensitivity shares many symptoms with celiac disease. Symptoms include bloating, constipation, diarrhea, weight loss, joint pain, migraines, brain fog, and numbness in the legs, arms, or fingers.

Many people believe gaining weight is a symptom of gluten intolerance. This is not true. Also, eating gluten free will result in weight loss is a myth.

Facts about Gluten Free Diet

Eating gluten adds protein to your diet. Gluten is actually a protein that helps food hold its shape. To be diagnosed for celiac disease and wheat allergy, gluten has to be in your system.

People who have celiac disease have one or both of two specific genes, the HLA DQ2 and the DQ8 genes. Having even one of these genes, as 40 percent of people do, doesn’t mean you have or will develop celiac disease.

 

Being Special

Americans like to think that we have to have a health issue to be special. Why is that? Are we a nation of hypochondriacs? Living a healthy lifestyle and being free from health issues is being very special!

• 70% of adults in America are diagnosed with a chronic disease.  75% of the nation’s healthcare cost is spent on management and treatment these conditions.
• Cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, infertility, hypertension, sleep apnea, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, depression, anxiety, and stress is controlled or avoided with a healthy lifestyle.

I don’t know about you, but I have never tasted any gluten free food that didn’t taste like cardboard!