Benefits and Risks of a Gluten-Free Diet

Dietician Cemile Gül from Denizli Private Egekent Hospital explained the unknowns by stating that citizens avoid gluten-free products and that deficiencies in nutrients may occur in individuals following a gluten-free diet, emphasizing the need to consult a specialist about the diet.

Dietician Cemile Gül from Denizli Private Egekent Hospital stated that avoiding wheat and gluten-containing products in daily dietary habits has become popular worldwide. She emphasized that a gluten-free diet is not always the right choice, and in the presence of a non-allergic condition, various studies have proven the positive results of a gluten-free diet. Dietician Gül stressed the importance of consulting a specialist. She said, “Individuals avoid wheat and gluten for potential health benefits such as weight control, clean eating, and better intestinal health. However, there are also individuals who must follow a lifelong gluten-free diet due to conditions like celiac disease. In autoimmune diseases or non-allergic conditions, various studies have proven the positive effects of a gluten-free diet. It is known that a gluten-free diet is a proven dietary treatment in diseases such as celiac disease, gluten ataxia, dermatitis herpetiformis, and wheat allergy. In addition to these diseases, it has been observed that gluten-free eating can reduce symptoms in conditions such as non-celiac gluten sensitivity, some neurological disorders, migraines, depression, and autism.”

“In addition to the benefits of a gluten-free diet, it can also lead to deficiencies in the body.” Dietician Gül, explaining that gluten-free eating can also lead to problems, said, “However, it should not be forgotten that a gluten-free diet can generally be high in saturated fat and calories, low in fiber compared to standard diets, and may cause deficiencies in B vitamins, iron, folate, and micronutrients in individuals following a gluten-free diet, and it can also increase exposure to toxic metals. When there is no underlying disease associated with gluten, the lack of accessibility to gluten-free products, the psychological and social challenges of gluten-free eating, the financial burden, and the effects on intestinal health and immune system functions must be taken into account. Individuals should follow a gluten-free diet under the guidance of a physician or dietitian. Otherwise, besides the benefits of a gluten-free diet in the long term, deficiencies may occur in the body.”