Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Gluten Free... FAD or NOT

Gluten Free just a Fad?

Some people think that eating gluten-free is just a fad. Or a way to lose weight & claiming that it helped them lose weight.   Every time we hear of a new way to lose weight you see people jump on the bandwagon because they want to lose weight too.  Most people assume when they find out that I am gluten-free It’s because I wanted to join the fad, be healthy, lose weight.  

“Gluten is found in two of the world’s most important staples, pasta and bread. It's not going anywhere.”  say Clifford Wright a culinary historian and cookbook author.  This is amusing to me that culinary historian makes a statement like this.  He should know that gluten is found is MUCH more than just two items.  His article was short and had no real content except to attack the word fad & discussed nothing about the true topic ‘gluten intolerance’.  

The funny part is... Gluten Free does not mean weight loss program!  I agree that gluten free isn't for everyone.  I do agree that limited gluten products is smart.  However, the gluten free diet won't help you drop weight if you don't have a gluten intolerance.  Cutting the amount (being smart, eating a healthy amount) along with a healthy amount of other daily nutrients and exercise will help your maintain or lose weight.    

You will see a variety of self test online or quizzes you can take to see if you have a gluten intolerance.  Below I have listed a few common ‘gluten intolerance’ symptoms.  

Common symptoms of gluten intolerance
  1. Gastrointestinal (GI): stomach & digestive problems these can include one or some of the following: gas, bloating, queasiness, abdominal cramping, constipation, diarrhea, or an alternating combination of both - IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).
  2. Headaches and/or migraines.
  3. Emotional issues involving chronic irritability and sudden, irrational mood shifts.
  4. Neurological issues including: dizziness, difficulty balancing, and peripheral neuropathy affecting nerves outside the central nervous system and resulting in pain, weakness, tingling or numbness in the extremities.
  5. Fatigue, whether chronic (after every meal). Chronic fatigue syndrome (fibromyalgia, a syndrome not a disease). 


Helpful Hints.  Journaling:   Write down symptoms, be specific, add dates, times, & location on body.  Food sensitivities: keep track of foods that you have reactions to. 

I was readying online and found an article that talked about the gluten-free industry and how it has reached its all-time high and how it continues to rise. Consequently, companies and mass producers jump on the gluten-free bandwagon with products that interfere with overall health. We refute diet fads and asks, “Will this product heal my body and help my body towards my ultimate goal?   FIT-Mommas is dedicated to collecting information involving autoimmune disease & healthy living. The goal is to provide information that will aid moms, women & any person who can learn from my journey. I hope to be the resource that inspire others to live a lifestyle that honors God first & foremost, & makes changes that will enable growth and happiness.  This FAD is something that the gluten free industry is making $$ on... It makes me sad! 

For many, gluten makes life miserable & hard.   I want to be that person who motivates you to eat gluten-free and help towards improvement of overall health.  FIT-Mommas was designed to be a support and encouragement... not a FAD.   Maintaining a gluten-free lifestyle will strengthen your overall body. With the proper knowledge, and determination, your life can be amazing!! 




So I ask again... Fad?  I say NO!  The Media is the one who makes anything out to be a fad.  Gluten-free products are popular right now.  However, any person who has a medical issue (autoimmune/celiac/intolerance) with gluten shouldn't be buying these products.  These products are made for those who are interested in the fad!  These products are filled with junk that isn't good for you.  Not to mention they are processed.  Keeping a organic and fresh diet is always best. 





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