Gluten is often associated with weight gain and unbalanced diets. Nutritionist clears up some myths about protein
The belief that gluten is a diet villain is very popular. So much so that it is increasingly common for products to receive the #glutenfree flag on the label. Additionally, best sellers and influencers also argue that consuming foods without this protein contributes to a healthier life.
According to the National Federation of Celiac Associations in Brazil (Fenacelbra), the number of people who exclude gluten from their diet is much greater than the number of intolerant and celiac patients. This is likely due to a third group of people, who believe in the relationship between cutting this protein and weight loss and improved health. However, science shows that this is not the case.
According to the coordinator of gastronomy and nutrition of São Cristóvão Saúde, Cintya Bassi, there are no conclusive studies that confirm this hypothesis. “But yes, it is possible to lose weight by excluding gluten from the diet. Not because it is the bad guy, but because it is present in high-calorie foods and often consumed with little balance,” reports the specialist. Examples are processed foods and carbohydrate sources, which provide weight gain and have the compound.
And who can’t even eat gluten?
Apart from those who give up gluten consumption because they want to lose weight, there are those who just can’t ingest proteins. “There are celiacs, who represent about 1.4% of the world population. In these patients, when the intestine comes into contact with gluten, reactions of the immune system are triggered. In addition to them there are intolerant individuals, a milder condition, but which is related to discomforts such as bloating, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, strong-smelling stools and headaches,” he clarifies.
The expert also highlights the case of gluten allergies. In addition to staying away from foods with protein, these people need to pay attention to cosmetics that contain the compound in their formula. This is because these products bring harmful effects to the body of those who are sensitive to the component.
The guide is essential
The nutritionist underlines the importance of professional monitoring for those who need or want to abolish gluten. This is because an expert can help you keep your diet balanced and avoid nutrient deficiency. By itself, the component does not bring benefits, but the individual may suffer from a lack of nutrients from foods in which gluten is present.
“The exclusion includes, for example, whole grains, which are important sources of fiber and other nutrients. These compounds are associated with weight maintenance, cholesterol reduction and bowel cancer prevention,” warns Cintya. To replace gluten, the nutritionist recommends other healthy options, such as rice flour, sweet and sour cassava flour, cornmeal, cassava, buckwheat and tapioca, for example.
Finally, the practitioner reiterates that there is not a single villain or nutrient that can change your health overnight. “Remember that anything you eat in excess overloads the body. Since Western culture is full of bread and sweet diversity, the secret is to maintain a balanced meal, alternating consumption with other foods,” he concludes.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
