GLUTEN-FREE DIETS

Are you aware that only 1% off the population has celiac disease? And only around 8% of the population have any medical reason for eating gluten-free. Here are some tips about whether or not to eat gluten-free (frankly only when told to do so by a doctor, in my opinion):

Do go gluten-free if you have biopsy-confirmed celiac disease. Eating gluten-free in this case will prevent intestinal damage and help manage your symptoms of the disease.

Do go gluten-free if you have medically documented gluten sensitivity.

Do go gluten-free if your doctor told you to do so.

Don't go gluten-free thinking gluten-free foods are lower in carbs. In fact gluten-free foods often contain more carbs as sugar and other high carb ingredients are used to replace the wheat or other gluten grains. (Diabetics beware of this one. You don't need that extra sugar!)

Don't go gluten-free as a way to lose weight. If you do lose weight under such circumstances it is probably because you gave up crackers, pastas, breads, etc.

Don't make the mistake of thinking gluten-free foods are more nutritious. Most gluten-free foods are not enriched with the B vitamins and/or iron.