Is it the gluten or is it the .....
If you’ve ever struggled with digestive issues, fatigue, or autoimmune symptoms, you’ve probably heard that gluten is the culprit. But what if gluten isn’t the real enemy? In this post, we’ll uncover what’s truly making you sick and why going gluten-free may be the solution—though not for the reasons you think.
Modern Wheat: What Changed?
The wheat we consume today is vastly different from what our ancestors ate. Over the past several decades, modern wheat has been genetically modified and chemically treated to increase yields and improve baking qualities. While these changes may have been beneficial for large-scale farming, they’ve wreaked havoc on our health.
Here’s what’s different about today’s wheat:
Hybridization: Modern wheat contains more gluten proteins than ancient varieties like einkorn or emmer. This makes bread rise better but also makes it harder for our bodies to digest.
Glyphosate Use: Today’s wheat is often sprayed with chemicals like glyphosate, a herbicide that has been linked to gut dysbiosis, inflammation, and autoimmune flare-ups. This chemical can make its way into our food, damaging the delicate balance of our gut microbiome.
Is It Really Gluten or the Processing?
For many people, it’s not gluten itself that’s causing digestive issues or inflammation. Instead, it’s the processing of wheat and the chemicals used in modern farming practices that are at the root of the problem. When we consume bread, pasta, or other products made from modern wheat, our bodies may struggle to break down the altered gluten protein and detoxify from harmful chemicals like glyphosate.
Should You Go Gluten-Free?
If you have celiac disease, going gluten-free is a must. Or, if you are sensitive to gluten or dealing with gut issues, going gluten-free might be your best option. However, it’s important to choose low-glycemic, whole grains that won’t spike your blood sugar. Here are three gluten-free grains that are great for digestion and overall health:
Quinoa: A high-protein, nutrient-dense grain that’s easy to digest.
Buckwheat: Despite its name, buckwheat is naturally gluten-free and supports stable blood sugar.
Millet: A mild, nutrient-rich grain that’s easy on the gut and a perfect alternative to wheat.
Note: Some individuals with digestive issues may be sensitive to all grains, even gluten-free, which is why the elimination diets are commonly recommended to help heal the gut before carefully reintroducing specific foods.
By replacing wheat with these gluten-free options, you may still enjoy grains without the negative effects of gluten and chemical residues.
How to Find Hidden Gluten in Foods
Going gluten-free means more than avoiding bread and pasta—it requires knowing where gluten hides. To avoid accidental gluten consumption, always read food labels carefully. Look for the phrases “contains gluten/wheat” or ingredients like wheat, barley, rye, and malt.
Common foods where gluten hides include:
Soy Sauce: Often contains wheat.
Salad Dressings: Sometimes use gluten as a thickener.
Processed Meats: Deli meats and sausages often have gluten fillers.
Soups and Broth: Gluten is commonly added as a thickener.
Imitation Seafood: Products like imitation crab contain gluten-based fillers.
When eating out, stick to gluten-free menu options or ask how dishes are prepared. Don’t be shy to ask the server or the chef. Your health is on the line. Foods like bread, buns, cookies, and cakes will almost always contain gluten, unless specifically labeled gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Gluten might not be the true villain in your health struggles, but modern wheat and the chemicals used in its production certainly play a role. If you’re dealing with digestive issues, autoimmune flares, or chronic inflammation, switching to a gluten-free diet with clean, low-glycemic grains may offer relief.
Ready to make the switch to gluten-free living? Start by eliminating processed wheat products and incorporating nutrient-dense, gluten-free grains into your diet. Your body—and gut—will thank you.
The more you know, the more you glow.
Genny Mack
Holistic Nutritionist & Lupus Warrior
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