Gluten free foods are becoming more common, but what exactly is gluten? Gluten is a protein that forms an elastic bond when it is mixed with water. This makes gluten ideal for holding together breads and cakes, but it should also make you wonder what gluten does in your stomach?
Gluten can cause other foods in your stomach to stick together and create a big blob in your stomach. This may cause you to not absorb foods as well because the gluten binds everything up. Eating too much gluten may also lead to inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, osteoporosis, neurological conditions, physiological conditions, and have a negative effect on your body as a whole. Some signs that you may not tolerate gluten very well include not feeling well, bloating, stomach pain, diarrhea, fatigue, headaches, joint pain, muscle pain, and/or nausea.
Gluten may be a hidden ingredient in your foods so be on the lookout for these other names that may be listed on an ingredient label
- Hydrolyzed vegetable protein
- Malts
- Natural flavoring
- Starches
- Textured vegetable protein (TVP)
Alternatives to gluten are an option but some gluten free foods are not beneficial to the body. A Lot of gluten free foods contain corn, which is usually genetically modified, and used as a filler. Gluten free foods are also usually highly processed and full of extra sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats.
The best foods to eat that do not contain gluten are healthy organic whole foods. Foods that do not contain gluten and are beneficial for your body include avocados, organic fruits and vegetables, coconut oil, nuts, seeds, organic grass fed meats, quinoa, wild caught fish, grass fed butter, and organic eggs. These foods give you the nutrients, protein, and healthy fats for an overall healthy eating plan.
If you would like to bake or use some type of flour for cooking I recommend using an alternative flour like coconut flour, or almond flour. It is best to buy organic or non gmo when buying alternative flours.
It is possible to eat gluten free and may even be beneficial to your body. If you would like to see if your body is having a hard time with gluten contact Clean Life Family today. Food intolerances are only one of the five stressors that get tested on you at every visit.
Clean Life Family is located in Hibbing, MN. Clean Life Family specializes in Nutrition Response Testing and Nutrition Coaching. All services at Clean Life Family are tailored towards your specific goals, because we know no two people are the same. Every program is personalized specifically to you! Are you ready to heal your body from the inside out for future generations to come? Are you ready to learn how to eat for life? Are you ready to help your family and improve their nutrition as well?
Brianna Lofquist, RN, BSN, CECP
Nutrition Response Testing Practitioner
Call or text 218-248-7014
Follow us on facebook @cleanlifefamily
How to Balance Your Blood Sugar