Whether going gluten-free by choice or because of a medical diagnosis, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. There are so many well-intentioned articles out there. Some will tell you to avoid a variety of items. Others will tell you there is more freedom in certain areas than there is. We wanted to share the 5 myths you hear about going gluten-free because we believe in preparing you to thrive with this gluten-free life.
The 5 Myths You Hear About Going Gluten-Free
These five myths are simply a starting point. There are many things that are said about gluten-free living that are not true. When adjusting to a gluten-free life, make sure to fact check any information you receive to make sure it is the best possible advice for your situation. You can not only adjust well to gluten-free living, but you can thrive with it! Here are a few myths about gluten-free living you might have heard or even believed!
Myth 1 - I won’t be able to eat anything good!
One of the most common myths about gluten-free eating is that you will have to give up the good foods you enjoy. While this may have been true years ago, this couldn’t be further from the truth now. There is a large variety of gluten-free foods on the market. Even better, many of these will keep the same flavors you have come to enjoy without the gluten you can no longer have. Spend some time researching gluten-free products and you will find that your options are abundant when eating gluten-free.
3 Tips for enjoying gluten-free eating
- Find a version of one of your favorites. - Do you have a favorite gluten item? There are a variety of items you can either make or buy that are gluten-free. Don’t give up everything you love.
- Research Gluten-free menu items. - Going out to eat can be overwhelming when you have a food allergy or sensitivity. Research gluten-free options at your favorite restaurant before visiting.
- Try new things. - When making the transition to gluten-free eating the hardest part can be adding new things to your weekly menu. Don’t be afraid to try new flours or new versions of favorite recipes.
Myth 2 - Gluten-free diets are for weight loss.
Many people assume that a gluten-free diet is an attempt at weight loss. While you may lose weight on a gluten-free diet, that is not the goal. Instead, gluten-free diets are often because of a food allergy or food sensitivity. Some may lose weight as they substitute gluten for other options. Others may also see weight-loss due to a reduction of inflammation from gluten allergies or sensitivities. The intention of gluten-free living is not to use them as a weight-loss strategy.
Myth 3 - Gluten-free diets are healthier for everyone.
While there are many who would benefit from a gluten-free diet, gluten-free diets are not for everyone. Instead, a diet free of gluten is most commonly suggested for those with allergies or sensitivities. If a person is searching for a healthier lifestyle, it will require a change in more areas than just in the area of gluten. In fact, with the creation of countless gluten-free desserts and packaged foods, it is fairly common to see some continue unhealthy habits while making the choice to be gluten-free. Gluten-free diets are mainly healthier for those who have a gluten allergy or sensitivity or for those who just feel better eating less gluten.
Myth 4 - A little bit of gluten won’t hurt.
When making the transition to gluten-free living some will try to transition slowly while still eating a little bit of gluten here or there. This can seem harmless but it isn’t. If you have a gluten allergy or intolerance, that small amount of gluten can still cause a flare-up in symptoms or a gluten reaction. Add to this the fact that gluten reactions can last days, weeks, or in some circumstances, months and it becomes less worth it to just have a little bit. When choosing a gluten-free life, it is better to make the choice to completely eliminate gluten.
3 Ways to handle gluten cravings.
- Splurge on a gluten-free version. - Sometimes it is worth it to spend a bit more to have a baker or restaurant make a gluten-free version of your favorite gluten treat. There are lots of gluten-free alternative flours you can use, too.
- Talk to your accountability partner. - When moving to gluten-free living it helps to have someone who will hold you accountable and remind you why gluten is not a wise choice for you.
- Remember the price of gluten. - Often when getting a gluten craving, many will forget the cost of eating gluten on their body. What are your symptoms or negative consequences when eating gluten? Sometimes reminding yourself of these can help stop the craving.
Myth 5 - Gluten-free foods are more expensive!
Another area where many people hesitate with gluten-free living is the price point. Some gluten-free food options are priced higher than their gluten-rich counterparts. This can lead to some financial insecurity when a gluten allergy is diagnosed. The good news is, not all gluten-free foods will break the bank. In fact, there are quite a few low-cost gluten-free food options on the market that are budget-friendly.
3 Ways to save on gluten-free foods.
- Take advantage of sales. - While many stores may not put gluten-free foods on sale, many websites will offer coupon codes or discounts for gluten-free food. Take advantage of these sales to pick up some of your favorite gluten-free goodies.
- Choose alternatives. - When making a move to gluten-free eating, you don’t have to always eat gluten-free imitations. Instead, it may be time to try using rice, potatoes, or vegetables as a side instead of gluten items.
- Buy with a friend. - Some gluten-free flours and ingredients can be a bit pricier if you buy them all on your own. Join with a gluten-free friend and purchase large amounts of these items. You can then split the cost on the items you may not need as much of.
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