The trend to go gluten free either to lose weight or just to stay healthy is fast growing along with the fat free and sugar free trend. So much so that the 'Health Industry's' trying to make gluten free 'everything' for the health conscious public. So, goes out the natural nutrients and in comes the artificial so called healthy replacement. A few years back you had 'healthy cakes' which were made using whole wheat flour and now the same whole wheat flour is looking to be replaced by something else.
For people with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance, eating gluten-free is a necessity. For all of the health conscious people who think "gluten-free" means “weight loss-friendly,” please look beyond the fad. Most gluten-free breads or bakery products are made from refined grains. These products have double the carbs of whole-wheat options. Meaning, they are even more likely to spike your blood sugar causing fat-storing possibility, making you hungry more quickly.
Instead, focus on eating more whole grains and work on cutting out processed foods like sugary cereals, supposed low carb / sugar free/ fat free biscuits or cakes or breads. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and free of processed fare can aid weight loss more effectively than simply trading in a gluten-filled food for gluten-free varieties. Eat by your genes. Don't try to trade your home made 'paratha' or 'roti sabji' for quinoa or oats roti in the name of health. Your stomach will be more happy and comfortable with the familiar and known rather than the strange and unknown.
It's far more nourishing.
Look for good organic sources of whole grain flours. You can have combinations of millets and wheat if gluten is a bit of trouble or you just need a variety.
Jennifer Dhuri
Registered Dietitian
Mumbai
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