This week I wanted to do some research on how going gluten free has impacted people’s health and look into information about the effect of gluten on digestive systems. I have never gone to a doctor and been diagnosed with celiac disease or an allergy so I wanted to see if others have experienced the same symptoms and stomach sensitivity and to it. With my research, I definitely went down a rabbit hole of googling my symptoms, self diagnosing, discovering all the diseases I could have but, I also found out some interesting information related to how I have been feeling since starting this diet change.
One of the main outcomes from my research was learning about some possible nutritional deficiencies that can arise with eating a gluten free diet. Some websites suggested taking vitamin B supplements because fortified breads pasta and cereal have become a main source of B vitamins. It was discussed that because many gluten free store bought breads and pastas often contain less fibre, it is important to source fibre from other foods like vegetables, nuts, seeds, fruit and legumes instead of whole grains. A main theme I found was the idea of consuming a balanced and whole gluten free diet rather than a direct swap of bread to gluten free bread. When cutting out gluten, it is important to understand that substitution of gluten products most likely will generate nutritional deficiencies so an alteration in the whole diet must be considered.
So although I didn’t get to answers to all of questions about why gluten sensitivities occur nor did I find anything connected to my own health situation, I made some important discoveries that will benefit my health and keep me safe moving forward. I am looking forward to further looking into how I can help my body and getting some possible answers to my symptoms!
