The rise of the gluten-free diet has many people wondering why this dietary choice has become popular. Here’s a brief exploration of what gluten is, why some people avoid it, and how to determine if it's right for you.

What is gluten?

Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye gives bread its elasticity and chewiness. It's also found in various other foods and sometimes in surprising places.

It's important to understand the difference between celiac disease and gluten intolerance. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes intestinal damage when gluten is consumed. Gluten intolerance, also known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity, involves discomfort after eating gluten but without the intestinal damage caused by celiac disease.

Why go gluten-free?

A gluten-free diet is essential for individuals with celiac disease. Others might find eliminating gluten reduces digestive discomfort, inflammation, or fatigue. However, it's not a universal health solution and should be considered carefully.

What are the signs of gluten intolerance?

Common signs include bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, headaches, fatigue, and skin issues, such as rashes or acne, after consuming gluten-rich foods. If you experience these symptoms regularly, then you might want to explore a gluten-free diet.

Before you eliminate gluten, consider consulting with a healthcare professional, who might recommend an elimination diet, in which gluten is removed from your diet for a specific time frame and then is reintroduced to notice if symptoms reappear.