What is wrong with gluten?

By Free2Bme February 10, 2009 - 3:49pm

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I've been reading some messages, and found some suggestions that to lose weight or just "eat healthy", that it is best to avoid gluten.

Why is this?

I thought gluten was wheat, and whole wheat is healthy for us (in moderation, of course!).

thanks!

Add a Comment12 Comments

Free2Bme (reply to Coach Virginia)

Coach Virginia,

Thank--I went to this site, and still have some questions (if you don't mind further clarifying for me!).

I do not have any food allergies, and want to continue adding whole grains and whole wheat into my diet. I just want to be more mindful of what products/foods contain gluten (so, if I have a choice, I can choose the gluten-free food). Primarily, I am curious how my body would feel on a lower gluten "diet".

How do you and your family eat enough whole grains on a gluten-free diet?

I don't think I really understand whole grains vs. whole wheat. It sounds like they both contain gluten (unless purposefully left out of the processing, and labeled "gluten-free"...I do not want to pay extra for this).

So, for the sake of learning, I may be reading this wrong, but seem to have found two contradictory sites. Which one is correct?

Whole grains that do not naturally contain gluten:
* Brown or wild rice
* Pasta made from brown or wild rice, corn, or pure buckwheat
* Kasha made with pure buckwheat
* Corn
* Quinoa
* Flax
* Millet

Whole grains that do naturally contain gluten:
* Barley
* Brown rice
* Buckwheat
* Bulgur (cracked wheat)
* Millet
* Oatmeal
* Popcorn
* Whole-wheat bread, pasta or crackers
* Wild rice

Thanks! I'm really confused by this, and realize I am missing something!

One more question: what is the difference between sprouted bread and (what is the opposite?!). Are there other types of products that have the sprouted wheat, or is it just bread? And, why is this better?

February 12, 2009 - 1:28pm

alysiak

Gluten is a natural compound found in grassy grains like wheat, rye, barley and rice, and a source of protein. Gluten gets its bad rap due to the natural starch.

Whole grain is considered healthier than processed, enriched wheat that can cause lower your insulin level (from the carbohydrates) and your fat burning metabolism.

The problem is that we're a society addicted to carbohydrates and glutenous products like white breads.

I hope I've stated all this correctly.

For more information:

Gluten
Gluten-free diets gaining popularity
Gluten-free diets
Addiction to carbohydrates and gluten

February 10, 2009 - 9:05pm