Food allergies have been a growing concern among many Indians.
Indians habitually eat to the fullest, especially during the festive
season, with tongue-tasting food and sweets. Little do they realize that many complain
of digestion issues after the grand festivities. Taking pills sometimes gives
the much-needed relief, but it has its side effects.
In many medieval times, people consumed what was served on a platter.
Only by taste and appearance did gobbling up food lead to health complications
later.
One much-discussed food content is gluten. Much is being talked about
about gluten. It results in digestive issues and long-term health challenges.
Glutens are found in cosmetics and nutritional supplements.
So, what is gluten?
Glutens are natural proteins found in grains. Wheat, rye, and barley
contain gluten in specific proportions. It helps to bind together while making
dough. Pasta, cereals, and some food and drinks contain gluten. Ice creams also
contain gluten to a much larger extent.
Gluten has two protein components: gliadins and glutenins. When water is
mixed with wheat or grains, gluten forms a binding agent.
Often, the digestive system prevents the gluten from breaking down. It
results in celiac disease among many. Celiac is an auto-immune disease due to
gluten intake. A heavy bloating sensation sets in after having food rich in
gluten.
Digestive enzymes help break down food. Protease, an enzyme, is unable
to break gluten, which results in undigested gluten making its way to the small
intestine.
Gluten sensitivity may not affect everyone. Gluten is harmful to those
who are suffering from celiac disease. It is also for those who have an allergy
to wheat, etc.
Complications may arise due to gluten ataxia. It is a neurological
auto-immune disorder, and the cerebellum is affected.
The only way to keep celiac disease at bay is to avoid gluten-induced
foods. More awareness is the key to preventing gluten-enriched foods.
One should check labels to find whether gluten is present. A nutritionist’s guide to consuming the right diet will help mitigate the crisis, prevent celiac disease from setting in, and maintain a healthy digestive system.
