Since the last decade or so, gluten-free food has become increasingly popular. More and more individuals are becoming conscious as well as interested in what they are eating and how it impacts their health. For many, eliminating wheat from their diet has proven to yield positive results.
There’s a big difference between wheat today compared to ancient grains. Over the past few decades, our wheat has been genetically changed producing negative effects on our overall health. For example, for many people it has created inflammation, hindering the body’s natural defense system.
Reasons to Avoid Wheat
Consuming large amounts of wheat causes a wide variety of potential issues and conditions. Our bodies aren’t able to adequately handle the changes wheat has endured over the past few decades, nor the increased consumption over time. You may be affected by wheat, without realizing that it’s the cause. The following reasons focus on why you should be limiting wheat.
1. It’s Packed with Gluten
Gluten is a protein found in wheat. As mentioned, modern wheat is not the same as it once was. The problem with modern gluten lies in digestion issues. Our immune systems recognize gluten as a foreign invader, as it’s been manipulated. Our bodies essentially attack the gluten, and in some cases attack the digestive wall itself.
That is the case for those who suffer from celiac disease(genetic autoimmune disease). It’s a serious condition, with the potential for serious complications. Although only 1% of the population suffers from celiac disease, many more suffer from symptoms such as bloating, pain, tiredness, inconsistent stool and more.
It’s important to note that not all individuals are sensitive to wheat. If you think you may have a sensitivity, try eliminating wheat from your diet. Wait a month, then re-introduce wheat. Pay close attention to any symptoms that may develop. If any occur, you will have a better understanding that wheat may be an issue for you.
2. Negatively Affects Nutrients within the Body
Wheat has been shown to negatively affect the nutrients that are found throughout the body. Phytic acid is found in wheat, which binds to various minerals. The absorption of minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc and magnesium are prevented. These minerals are vital for our overall health, so this prevention is obviously a concern.
In cases where individuals are sensitive to wheat, the lining of their digestive system becomes damaged. In turn, this reduces the absorption rate of nutrients. Also, wheat does not contain all of the essential amino acids, therefore it’s not a good protein source. Lack of protein can hinder your internal systems.
3. Associated with Blood Sugar Spikes and Diabetes
Wheat has been highly refined, especially in white bread. When you consume white bread, you cause your blood sugar to spike. Once your blood sugar dips, hunger will be stimulated. This creates a harmful roller coaster effect, as your blood sugar spikes and dips.
Whole grain products are supposed to maintain a steady blood sugar, creating a more sustainable energy source. The issue with many whole grains are the way in which they’ve been processed. They’re ground into such a fine powder that they’re quickly digested. This too causes a spike in blood sugar levels.
Your blood sugar levels are associated with the glycemic index. This is a scale of how quickly foods make your blood sugar rise. Both white and whole bread have around the same glycemic index of 71. When you consume a lot of foods that are high on this index, you increase your risk of diabetes, obesity and heart disease.
4. Risk of Thyroid Complications
The thyroid is essential for your overall health. It helps control the rate that your body uses energy, controls sensitivity to hormones, and makes proteins. To achieve the fluffy quality in bread, manufacturers use a chemical known as potassium bromate.
This additive is known to be an endocrine disrupter. This means it interferes with natural hormones in our body. These interference are linked to thyroid complications, which in turn increase your risk of thyroid cancer. It also hinders thyroid activity. When your thyroid slows down, you burn fewer calories. This is directly related to potential weight-gain.
If you think wheat may be an issue for you, try eliminating it. As mentioned, after a month re-introduce wheat products into your diet. What are the results?
Strive to eat a balanced whole food diet, without indulging on wheat products. Without wheat, you might be a healthier, more energetic version of yourself!
