In search of a miracle diet, too many people have rushed on the gluten-free diet without knowing the benefits or the health risks of this diet adapted to people intolerant to gluten. However, this type of diet does not bring (except for people intolerant or allergic to gluten) any health benefits.
Researchers from the George Institute for Global Hearth (Australia) analyzed gluten-free products that are well established in the Australian food industry to compare their richness in nutrients, vitamins and fiber to products with gluten.
The results of this survey showed that gluten-free pasta contains 52% more protein than its gluten-free alternatives, and bread has 32% less. On the other hand, the latter does not contain more fiber than wheat flour bread. The scientists mostly found no significant difference in the amount of sugars and saturated fats from gluten-free foods.
An adapted and rebalanced diet
Of genetic origin, celiac disease (better known as gluten intolerance) is an autoimmune disease that causes permanent intolerance to one or more protein fractions of gluten. This pathology concerns one in 100 people in Europe. Gluten is a protein present in cereals (wheat, barley, rye…). But it is also used as an additive in certain foods, such as cold cuts or sauces. Prepared meals, pasta, pastries, bread are therefore all prohibited.
As refined gluten-free foods are low in essential vitamins and minerals, it is necessary to think about rebalancing the diet and compensating with vitamin and mineral supplements, as people with celiac disease do.
“Fancy labels extolling the health benefits of gluten-free foods are just marketing arguments, without any nutritional basis,” recalls Jason Wu, researcher at the George Institute for Global Hearth (Australia). “To eat better, all you have to do is buy fresh produce, wholegrain organic cereals and avoid prepared meals” concludes the researcher.
Read also:
Gluten intolerance: how do I know if I am celiac?
The gluten-free diet is not a weight loss diet
Gluten sensitivity: not to be confused with intolerance!