Thriving Gluten-Free: Why It’s More Than Just a Trend

When it comes to understanding why many people are thriving gluten-free, it is important to know why it’s more than just a trend. Several years ago, eating a diet without gluten became a trend or fad of sorts as people either experienced a first-hand health benefit of the diet or they simply hopped aboard the bandwagon.

 

However, before this trend ever began and well after it plummeted in popularity, millions of people were and still are required to live a gluten-free lifestyle due to documented medical conditions such as gluten intolerance, gluten allergy, and celiac disease. For people with diagnoses such as these, adopting this diet is not simply a choice or preference. In some cases, if those diagnosed with the above disorders were to ingest gluten it could cause extreme sickness or even death.

How Do I Know if I Should Give Up Gluten?

Most experts agree that eliminating gluten from your diet without first consulting a healthcare professional is a mistake for three primary reasons.

1. For those who think that giving up gluten may benefit their overall health in ways that are not tied to an intolerance, allergy, or autoimmune disease, it is important to note that it could also potentially hamper your health. Gluten is typically part of a well-balanced diet for people without an intolerance, allergy, or celiac disease. This is why it is important to consult with a medical professional before making any major dietary changes. These experts can review the pros and cons specifically for your lifestyle and body before you make any permanent changes.
2. Individuals who are experiencing symptoms of gluten intolerance or allergy should speak with their healthcare provider right away to determine if allergy testing is needed and determine what course of action to follow regarding the consumption of gluten in the meantime. A food allergy to wheat or gluten is serious and requires immediate attention.
3. People who believe they may have celiac disease often undergo testing of the stomach lining for evidence. In the case of celiac disease, giving up gluten before testing can skew or compromise the results, potentially making them inaccurate.

For all these reasons and more, it is essential to get professional medical advice from a board-certified doctor about issues with gluten.

Why Thriving While Gluten-Free Is Possible

In decades past, gluten-free innovations were few and far between, making gluten-free products that tasted good hard to find. Fortunately, the food industry has made great strides recently in both the quality and range of gluten-free goods available.

There are whole foods like fruits and vegetables that can be organically gluten-free which allows people to abide by a gluten-free diet. However, the growing availability of gluten-free products that go well beyond just fruits and vegetables make it possible for this same group of people to thrive!

Gluten-free consumers can buy safe products online from companies that offer certified gluten-free products. For greater convenience, we believe in making this option available to our customers both online and in stores. Whether you choose to order online or search for a nearby grocer that stocks our products, some of our most popular certified gluten-free options:

• Gluten free breads: English muffins, hot dog buns, pumpkin bread loaves
• Gluten free muffins: Blueberry muffins
• Gluten free cookies: Chocolate chip cookies, snickerdoodle cookies
• Dessert Breads: Lemon pound cake loaves

Greater availability of a wide range of breads and treats can solve a multitude of issues for those required to eat gluten free. A pro-tip that offers an even greater degree of flexibility is buying items that can be frozen (according to package directions) until they are ready for use.

Did you forget about a friend’s birthday party and need a safe treat to bring? Gluten-free blueberry muffins can be a delicious substitute for traditional cake. Are you tasked with bringing cookies to a school event and need something yummy to share that everyone can safely enjoy? Consider bringing our chocolate chip cookies, snickerdoodle cookies, or pound cake sliced up.

The Benefits of Mindful Eating When It’s Necessary to Be Gluten-Free

Eating gluten-free benefits those who require it in multiple ways, such as saving money on eating out, eating more whole foods, and maintaining a more balanced diet.

While there are a growing number of restaurants offering gluten-free dishes, many people cannot afford to eat out for every meal. By simply eating a few more dinners at home each week, you could be keeping more money in your wallet and bank account.

When people do buy gluten-free staples, it may help to use them in various ways and for different meals. For example, a gluten-free blueberry muffin makes for a mouthwatering breakfast when paired with a protein. It can also double as a dessert if it is topped with gluten-free icing or whipped cream. Be inventive with how you use your favorite products to keep things interesting.

Eating whole foods in moderation is something that most nutritionists and healthcare professionals encourage. Whole foods are not processed, which means they are typically lower or free from unhealthy levels of sodium and unhealthy fats. This also can lead to maintaining a more well-balanced diet that offers your body the essential vitamins and nutrients it needs.

 

Thriving gluten-free is far more than just a trend. It is a necessary way of life for many people across the country suffering from gluten intolerance, food allergies, or celiac disease. Living a gluten-free lifestyle may be a sacrifice, but it does not mean you have to give up enjoying great tasting food. Gluten-free food is delicious too, but make sure you purchase items from a certified gluten-free supplier.