Gluten is a protein complex made up of glutenin and gliadin. A diet without this protein is popularly known as gluten free diet. A gluten free diet is not necessarily health promoting unless a person is diagnosed with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system of the body detects gluten as a foreign invader and causes immune reactions to fight gluten. These immune reactions damage the gut, especially small intestine. As a result, the body will not be able to efficiently absorb nutrients.
Gluten Sensitivity
On the other hand, gluten sensitivity is a condition in which a person experiences symptoms similar to celiac disease such as bloating, abdominal pain and constipation after eating gluten-containing food, but does not actually have celiac disease.
Examples of gluten-containing grains:
People with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity must avoid consuming these grains.
Examples of gluten free grains:
Fortunately, people with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity can eat gluten free grains to gain dietary energy.
Therefore, gluten free food is safe for all people, including those with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. People without these health concerns should focus on having well-balanced diet