Goodbye gluten

Better Nutrition, Oct, 2007 by Nicole Brechka

Several years ago, when I was struggling with chronic allergies, a naturopath suggested I eliminate wheat and other gluten grains from my diet. I thought she was completely crazy. At the time, I couldn't understand how avoiding a certain food would help me stop sneezing. And who wants to give up bread and pasta, anyway? It wasn't until a few years later that I came to appreciate her wise advice.

Here's how it happened: I started a new diet (similar to the South Beach or Atkins Diet) that restricted most gluten-containing grains. Like many of the gluten-free bloggers on the Internet (and I do mean many!), I noticed a dramatic change in my health. My skin started to clear up. My eyes became brighter, not so red. And my face looked less puffy, especially underneath my eyes. Most striking was the diet's positive effect on my digestion, energy levels, and yes, my allergies! If I "cheated" and ate something high in carbs (and therefore usually gluten), my symptoms returned with a vengeance.

Gluten intolerance or even wheat sensitivity are not unique, but they often get lost in the shadow of full-blown celiac disease, which causes more severe symptoms and can be serious if not treated. Moreover, it's important to understand that there is spectrum when it comes to food intolerances and allergies. As author Lisa Turner explains in her article "6 Simple Tricks for Living Gluten Free" on p. 50, just because someone tests negative for celiac disease doesn't mean they can't be helped by a gluten-free diet. The best test is to try it for yourself. It may take several weeks to notice a difference, but it will be worth it if it helps you overcome long-standing health issues. Think about it another way: A gluten-free diet, at its core, is an extremely healthful, wholesome way to eat no matter who you are.

We at Better Nutrition are dedicated to being your source for gluten-free living. In addition to the article mentioned above, please also see p. 66 of this issue for our new regular department "Go Gluten Free," and stay tuned for lots more gluten-free info in the coming months!