What is gluten free food? Why should Indians be concerned?
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. It gives elasticity and structure to baked goods, but it can also cause digestive problems and allergic reactions for some people. People who have celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder that damages the small intestine when exposed to gluten, need to follow a strict gluten free diet to avoid serious health complications. People who have gluten intolerance or sensitivity may also benefit from avoiding gluten, as it can cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, fatigue, headaches, and joint pain.
Gluten free food is food that does not contain gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and some other grains. Gluten can cause digestive problems, skin rashes, headaches, and other symptoms in people who have celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Gluten free food can include rice, millet, vegetables, fruits, beans, lentils, meat, eggs, dairy, and some processed foods that are labeled as gluten free.
Indians should be concerned about gluten free food for two reasons. First, some Indians may have celiac disease or gluten intolerance and not know it. According to a study by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), about 1% of Indians have celiac disease. However, many of them are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed due to lack of awareness and testing facilities. Celiac disease can lead to serious complications such as anemia, osteoporosis, infertility, and cancer if left untreated. Therefore, Indians who have symptoms of gluten intolerance should consult a doctor and get tested for celiac disease.
Second, some Indians may benefit from eating gluten free food even if they do not have celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Gluten free food can be healthier than gluten containing food because it is often made with whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and spices that are rich in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Gluten free food can also help prevent or manage conditions such as diabetes, obesity, inflammation, and autoimmune diseases. Therefore, Indians who want to improve their health and wellness should consider eating more gluten free food.
Gluten free food is not only good for your health but also for your taste buds. There are many delicious gluten free options in Indian cuisine that you can enjoy at home or at restaurants. For example, you can try tandoori chicken, curries, dal, rice dishes, pakoras, tikkas, dosas, idlis, and more . You can also find gluten free products such as cakes, breads, pizzas, pastas, noodles, and snacks at online or offline stores. So if you are looking for a delicious and nutritious way to eat gluten free food in India, you have plenty of choices.
References:
: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4406898/
: https://www.glutenfreeindia.com/