Feb 21, 2025
Gluten-free diets: Pros and cons uncovered
Siddhartha JanaHigher costs, lower nutrition
Gluten-free products are frequently more costly, less nutrient-dense, and contain more sugar and calories.
Source: Canva
False health benefits
It's common to hear overblown claims that gluten-free products help manage diabetes or help people lose weight.
Source: Canva
Nutritional deficiencies
Added fibre can disrupt the digestion of proteins, and many gluten-free diets are deficient in important nutrients.
Source: Canva
Increased sugar content
Products that are gluten-free typically have increased sugar content, which raises BMI and may pose health hazards.
Source: Canva
Loss of beneficial compounds
By excluding wheat, rye, and barley, gluten-free diets eliminate arabinoxylan, which promotes blood sugar control and intestinal health.
Source: Canva
Some improvements exist
Although gluten-free seeded bread has a high fibre content, the nutritional value varies by location and maker.
Source: Canva
Gluten-free diet trend
Although a small fraction of Americans require gluten-free diets, 25% of them use gluten-free items, frequently without a prescription.
Source: Canva
Market growth
By 2032, the gluten-free market is expected to have nearly doubled from its 2024 valuation of $7.28 billion.
Source: Canva
The future of gluten-free products
To increase the affordability and nutritional balance of gluten-free foods, research, grants, and public awareness campaigns are required.
Source: Canva
How to make perfect Chole Bhature from scratch