Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and other grains that gives bread and other baked goods its characteristic texture.

While going gluten-free used to be a niche fad diet for people with celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder that damages the lining of the small intestine, it has now become a widespread lifestyle choice for many people seeking to improve their health. But is going gluten-free a fad or a necessity?.

The Science of Gluten Sensitivity

While celiac disease is a well-documented medical condition that affects an estimated 1% of the population, non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) is a less well-understood condition that some people claim to suffer from.

Unlike celiac disease, which causes an autoimmune response to gluten that damages the small intestine, NCGS involves a range of symptoms, such as bloating, diarrhea, and fatigue, that are thought to be triggered by gluten consumption.

Despite the lack of a clear scientific consensus on NCGS, many people who report gluten sensitivity feel better when they go gluten-free.

Some studies suggest that people with NCGS may have an immune response to gluten that doesn’t involve the small intestine, leading to inflammation and other symptoms. However, other studies have not been able to demonstrate that gluten is the cause of these symptoms, and some researchers believe that other components of wheat, such as FODMAPs, may be responsible for NCGS symptoms.

The Rise of Gluten-Free Products

Regardless of the scientific debate over gluten sensitivity, the rise of gluten-free products is undeniable. Grocery stores and restaurants now offer a wide array of gluten-free options, from pasta and bread to beer and cake mix.

According to the Gluten-Free Buyers Guide, the global gluten-free market is expected to reach $7.59 billion by 2020.

However, not all gluten-free products are created equal. Some gluten-free products are highly processed and contain high levels of sugar, salt, and other additives, which can be just as unhealthy as gluten-containing counterparts.

For people who are going gluten-free for health reasons, it’s important to read labels carefully and choose whole, minimally processed foods whenever possible.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Going Gluten-Free

For people with celiac disease, going gluten-free is a necessity to avoid serious health consequences. However, for those without celiac disease, the benefits and drawbacks of going gluten-free are less clear.

On the one hand, some people report feeling better overall when they go gluten-free, particularly if they have NCGS.

Studies have also suggested that gluten-free diets may be beneficial for people with certain autoimmune disorders, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and multiple sclerosis. In addition, gluten-free diets can be a way to reduce calorie intake and increase consumption of fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods.

On the other hand, going gluten-free can be challenging and restrictive, particularly for those who are used to eating wheat-based foods.

Gluten-free products can also be more expensive and harder to find than conventional foods, and some people may not get enough fiber and other nutrients if they don’t choose whole, minimally processed foods. In addition, gluten-free diets can lead to social isolation and anxiety in social situations, such as eating out with friends or attending parties.

The Bottom Line

So, is going gluten-free a fad or a necessity? The answer is: it depends. For people with celiac disease, going gluten-free is a medical necessity. For people with NCGS, going gluten-free may help alleviate symptoms, but the science is still uncertain.

For people without celiac disease or NCGS, going gluten-free is a personal choice that may have some health benefits, but also some drawbacks.

Ultimately, the key to a healthy diet is not necessarily going gluten-free, but rather focusing on whole, minimally processed foods, and balancing calorie intake with physical activity.

A registered dietitian or other healthcare provider can help determine if going gluten-free is the right choice for an individual’s health needs and goals.