Opening Statement:
Gluten-Free Diet Awareness Month highlights the problems that can be caused by gluten products and the diseases linked to them. Gluten is known to create inflammation in the body, and can also cause damage to the intestines. While most of us don’t notice the impact of gluten, people who suffer from celiac disease can experience severe reactions. During the month of November, we aim to show support for such individuals. Gluten-Free Diet Awareness Month introduces gluten-free food products and educates people on how a lifestyle change can have a positive impact on the way they look and feel.
History of Gluten-Free Diet Awareness Month
· The Gluten-Free Diet Awareness Month was founded by the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness to increase support for those with celiac disease and gluten intolerance. However, gluten intolerance has existed since time immemorial. Celiac was identified and named by a Greek physician known as Aretaeus of Cappadocia. He named celiac disease, ‘koiliakos’, derived from the Greek word for ‘abdomen’. In the 19th century, Doctor Matthew Baillie further published his observations on celiac disease. Dr. Baillie spoke of it as a “chronic diarrheal disorder causing malnutrition and characterized by a gas-distended abdomen.” The doctor also observed that rice was less harmful as compared to the starch products.
· More research on gluten intolerance and illnesses caused by it was conducted by Donald D. Kasarda. He saw himself as a gluten protein chemist and is responsible for publishing several pieces of research that helped people who suffered from celiac disease. His aim was to discover what could or could not be consumed by those with the disease. However, the most informative research on gluten products was provided by a Dutch pediatrician named Willem-Karel Dicke. In the late 1930s, he observed that his patients with celiac disease improved when they did not eat products containing wheat. Furthermore, Dicke and a few of his colleagues proceeded with feeding experiments in the 1940s to figure out if wheat was the specific starch that caused problems for people with celiac disease. The conclusion presented was that wheat starch, corn flour, maize starch, rice flour, and peeled, boiled potatoes are harmless. On the other hand, wheat flour, rye flour, and oats are harmful.
Frequent Asked Questions:
· How Much Weight Can You Lose in A Month If You Go Gluten-Free?
If you cut gluten from your diet, you can lose between 15 and 20 pounds.
· Does Gluten Cause Belly Fat?
Gluten can cause weight gain in general, but there is no evidence to suggest it results in belly fat.
· Does Gluten Cause You to Pass Gas?
Unfortunately, gluten intolerance or a form of celiac disease can often result in smelly flatulence.
How to Observe Gluten-Free Diet Awareness Month
· Share Gluten-Free Recipes
Celebrate the month by sharing gluten-free recipes on social media. You can also forward them to your friends and family.
· Discuss Diseases Related to Gluten
Utilize the month to educate yourself. Speak about the diseases related to gluten and how you can find out if gluten is affecting you negatively.
· Host A Gluten-Free Dinner
Get people to realize that life without gluten isn’t so bad. Host a dinner with lots of delicious gluten-free food.
5 Facts About Gluten
1. Medical Conditions
There are over 200 conditions caused by gluten.
2. Links To Asthma
Gluten can trigger asthma symptoms.
3. Skin Diseases
Gluten can cause several distinct skin conditions.
4. Gluten On the Face and Skin
Gluten in cosmetics and skin products can cause health problems.
5. Gluten Inhibitions
It can inhibit nutrient absorption in those with celiac disease.
Why Gluten-Free Diet Awareness Month is Important
· It Spreads Awareness
The month is essential to spreading awareness regarding diseases related to gluten. This is a fact that many people aren’t aware of.
· Gluten-Free Alternatives Are Introduced
During the month, numerous gluten-free food alternatives are highlighted. It’s great for individuals suffering from gluten-related diseases as well as for those considering a gluten-free lifestyle.
· It’s Educational
The month is educational. The problems caused by gluten, how they can be tackled, and how one can live without gluten are discussed.
Closing Statement and Recap:
A gluten-free diet eliminates foods that contain gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and other grains. Gluten can also be added to foods during processing as a binding agent or flavoring. Some people think going gluten-free means not eating any carbohydrates, but this isn’t the case. Lots of foods that contain carbs, such as rice, potatoes, and beans, don’t contain gluten. People who adopt a gluten-free diet often lose weight, but it’s usually because they also cut out a lot of processed foods and refined carbohydrates that contain gluten. If you stop eating gluten to lose weight, it’s important to watch your portion sizes, get regular exercise and eat plenty of whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Source of Information: Various Google Searches
Until Next Week, Stay Safe and Well!
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