This article is from the first December issue of Breezes. Pick up a copy and start reading today!

One of the biggest trends in the last few years is the gluten-free diet. As this craze sweeps our society, it’s important to know exactly what a gluten-free diet is. Gluten is a protein found in wheat and grain. Initially, a gluten-free diet was suggested only for people with Celiac disease (gluten intolerance), a disease which only about 1% of the population has. About 4% of people are gluten-sensitive, which causes medical symptoms like weight gain, headaches, and upset stomach when gluten is consumed. With so few people having Celiac-related problems, why do one out of  five American adults go gluten-free?

According to leading doctors, most people who go gluten-free have no medical reason and do so only because of myths regarding gluten. About one-third of Americans believe a gluten-free diet will help them slim down, but research has shown that just the opposite is true. Gluten-free alternatives generally contain more calories and fat than their traditional counterparts. Not only that, going gluten-free is an expensive lifestyle. Gluten-free foods cost anywhere from double to quadruple the cost of the normal versions. Plus, avoiding wheat and grain might sound like an easy switch, but going gluten-free is quite the lifestyle change. A lot of foods contain some form of wheat or grain: bread, pizza, cookies, brownies, cake… the list goes on. Gluten is important for the presence of healthy bacteria in your stomach, so a gluten-free diet can actually have negative effects on your health.

However, going gluten-free isn’t entirely bad depending on how you go about it. Some who go gluten-free, especially athletes, substitute bread consumption for increased servings of fruits, vegetables, and meat. Fruits and vegetables contain all kinds of important vitamins and minerals. Plus, meat is very nutritious. So if you do switch to a gluten-free diet, set down that pizza and swap it for a delicious apple or carrot!

In the sports world, it’s no surprise that athletes are constantly looking for ways to get ahead. Does going gluten-free improve their performance? In a major study by a University of Tasmania researchers tracked a total of twenty-six athletes as they performed sporting events and exercises. One set of thirteen athletes ate gluten-free, while the other group consisted of athletes who ate normal diets.  The study showed no difference between the two groups.  They had similar vital signs and very similar post-workout characteristics.

When done right, the main benefits of going gluten-free would be eating wholesome, healthier foods – o en organic and non-processed. Plus, you’ll eat a LOT less carbs! But many people who embark on a gluten-free diet might be persuaded by their favorite athlete trying it without considering whether it’s really the best or most realistic approach for themselves. Some are mistaken about the true benefits of a gluten-free diet. Unless you have Celiac disease/sensitivity or replace wheat consumption with meat and fruit, going gluten-free might not be the best choice for you.