FREE SHIPPING! On online orders of $74+. Use code: SHIP74 
Access Denied
IMPORTANT! If you’re a store owner, please make sure you have Customer accounts enabled in your Store Admin, as you have customer based locks set up with EasyLockdown app. Enable Customer Accounts
Gluten-Free: Trend or Necessity
Paula Gallagher on
The accessibility of gluten-free diets has really come a long way. Many restaurants offer gluten-free options as part of their regular menu because the demand is there. In the past, you might hear of a celebrity touting a gluten-free diet, but now it is much more commonplace. Years ago, Chelsea Clinton had a gluten-free cake at her wedding because she has a gluten allergy. And even television personality Elizabeth Hasselback cuts out gluten, blaming it for her infertility. Wheat allergy or not, "gluten-free" is definitely a buzzword that really stands out.
What is Gluten?
Gluten is the protein that is found primarily in wheat, rye, barley and some oats, and is hidden in a wide variety of processed and prepared foods. Because gluten is hard to digest for some, it can wreak havoc on our bodies causing symptoms that range from fatigue, bloating and gas to malabsorption of nutrients, infertility and even osteoporosis. While some people are going gluten-free to help them lose weight, many make the switch out of necessity. Determining whether you have celiac disease or are just sensitive to gluten can mean the difference between eliminating gluten from your diet for the rest of your life, or just cutting back on the amount of gluten you consume.
Celiac Disease or Gluten Sensitivity
So what's the difference between celiac disease and gluten sensitivity?
Celiac is a hereditary autoimmune disease with no known cure, except eliminating all gluten from your diet. Gluten sensitivity can cause some uncomfortable symptoms but be controlled by reducing the amount of gluten you eat, or taking digestive aids. A simple blood test can give you a pretty good idea if you have the disease. Talk to your doctor if you think you may be suffering from either condition.
According to Peter H.R. Green, MD, director of the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University in New York City, gluten is very hard for anyone to digest and is the only protein in nature that our bodies cannot completely metabolize. The result: undigested gluten can stay in the gastrointestinal tract and cause irritation and inflammation. Unlike celiac disease, which is hereditary, gluten sensitivity can also be linked to environmental pollution, pesticides in our foods, use of antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory drugs that alter our digestive system's immune function and reduce our ability to properly digest gluten. Guess what? High levels of stress – mental, physical and emotional – can all contribute to the problem.
Now What?
This all sounds like bad news, doesn't it? Especially when all you want right now is a plate of pasta and warm bread. Well, the upside is that gluten-free foods have become readily available and surprisingly palatable over the last few years. Most grocery stores have a well-stocked gluten-free section. Going gluten-free or cutting back on gluten can also make you open your taste buds to wonderful ancient grains like amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat and wild rice, all of which provide protein, fiber and delicious flavors.
There is more good news – people who focus on healing their digestive tract system by eliminating gluten and eating a non-processed, healthy diet can potentially transform their health and how they feel. So, trend or necessity, try cutting back on gluten and see how you feel in a week. You may surprise yourself.
Also, taking a high-quality probiotic supplement may be helpful to additionally support your gastrointestinal tract. These beneficial bacteria aid in promoting digestion, regulating the immune system, and reducing allergic responses.
In particular, if you're experiencing GI issues, please speak with your healthcare provider about a gut-healing treatment plan that’s catered to you.
Categories
Categories
Humanized Health - NEW!
Learn about personalized health from top experts! Check out our fascinating new shows every week, available as videos, podcasts and transcripts.:
Our Bloggers
-
Paula Gallagher
Paula is a highly qualified and experienced nutrition counselor on the staff at Village Green.
read more.. -
Margo Gladding
Margo's impressive knowledge base is the result of a unique blend of educational and professional experience.
read more.. -
Dr. Neal Barnard
Dr. Barnard leads programs advocating for preventive medicine, good nutrition, and higher ethical standards in research.
read more.. -
Dr. Joseph Pizzorno
Dr. Joseph Pizzorno, ND is a pioneer of integrative medicine and a leading authority on science-based natural medicine.
read more.. -
Debi Silber
Debi is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutrition, a personal trainer, and whole health coach.
read more..
SEE ALL OF OUR BLOGGERS
Invalid password
Enter
Learning Resources
Consultations
Green Initiatives
Pharmacy/Compounding
Humanized Health
Village Green Blog
Stay Connected
Village Green Apothecary
5415 W Cedar Ln
Bethesda, Maryland, 20814
(301) 530-0800
Toll Free: (800) 869-9159
The information provided on this site is not intended to be a substitute for advice or treatment from a qualified physician, nor is it intended to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Consult your physician prior to starting any new health program or if you any questions regarding a medical condition.
© 2023 Village Green Apothecary - All Rights Reserved.