Why Gluten Free?
People choose a gluten-free diet for various reasons—some medical, some lifestyle-related. Here is a breakdown of why someone might choose or benefit from a gluten-free diet:
1. Medical Reasons
• Coeliac Disease
An autoimmune disorder where consuming gluten damages the small intestine. For people with coeliac disease, a strict gluten-free diet is essential for health and healing.
• Non-Coeliac Gluten Sensitivity
Some people experience symptoms similar to coeliac disease (bloating, fatigue, headaches) but test negative for it. A gluten-free diet can alleviate their symptoms.
• Wheat Allergy
This is a true allergy to wheat proteins (including gluten). A gluten-free (and wheat-free) diet is necessary to avoid allergic reactions.
2. Digestive Health
Many people report improved digestion, reduced bloating, and more consistent energy levels when avoiding gluten, even without a formal diagnosis.
3. Chronic Health Conditions
Some individuals with autoimmune conditions (like rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, or multiple sclerosis) find that reducing gluten helps manage inflammation and symptoms—though this depends on the individual and should be guided by a healthcare professional.
4. Improved Awareness & Ingredient Transparency
Eating gluten-free often encourages a more mindful approach to food, with increased attention to ingredients and cooking from scratch.
5. Support for Family or Community
In many cases, people choose to go gluten-free in solidarity with family members (e.g., coeliac children) or simply to make shared meals safer and easier.