“Gluten-free” seems to be everywhere. 

It is plastered on packaged foods throughout grocery aisles and popping up as an alternative menu option at restaurants and dining halls. 

But what does gluten-free really mean? Is it some sort of diet fad or does it have real benefits?

A gluten-free diet is one without the protein gluten. Gluten is found in wheat, barley, rye, and triticale. Basically, gluten is what gives bread its distinct spongy and chewy texture. 

An intolerance to gluten, known as Celiac Disease, is an inherited autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the small intestine. If untreated, Celiac Disease can lead to various other autoimmune disorders as well as osteoporosis and infertility. 

So, it makes sense that those who are intolerant to gluten go gluten-free. But what about the people who are embracing this diet for other reasons? 

Unfortunately, false advertising and misinformed media has led many people to think of “gluten-free” as synonymous with “health.”

Companies are taking advantage of this and labeling processed foods such as Cheetos as gluten-free. 

In fact, many processed foods that proudly declare their lack of gluten are actually worse nutritionally. Gluten-free substitutes such as rice or potato flour are generally higher in sugar content and lack necessary vitamins and minerals.

However, a gluten-free diet done right can certainly be beneficial. 

A recent study has indicated that wheat sensitivity is a legitimate thing. You don’t need to have Celiac disease to benefit from eliminating gluten. Many claim to feel better after eliminating gluten. 

So if you feel that foods with gluten don’t sit well with you, give a gluten-free diet a try! Just make sure that you eat nutritious substitutes such as quinoa and oats and avoid the misleading Cheetos.