Gluten allergies have seemingly been on the rise in recent years, with an estimated 18 million individuals in the United States who have varying sensitivities to gluten.

This leaves some to question “Why does it seem to be increasing?” and “Am I gluten sensitive?”

Gluten is a protein that is found in wheat, barley and rye that helps “glue” everything together. In those that are gluten sensitive or have an autoimmune condition known as Celiac Disease, this protein is difficult for the body to digest. This difficulty results in common symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, joint inflammation and migraine headaches.

To individuals who experience these symptoms as a result of consuming wheat, it is important for them to stick to eating only gluten-free foods.

The good thing is that there has been a noticeable increase in the variety of gluten-free products in local grocery stores and restaurants. This is a welcome change for those who suffer from the allergy.

Many celebrities, however, have advocated the gluten-free diet is healthier and a method of weight loss. While some individuals have experienced weight loss after cutting gluten out of their diet, it is likely that this weight loss is a result of cutting pasta, breads and other refined carbs and processed foods out of their diet.

Gluten itself is not a problem for the general population to digest and cutting it out of your diet will not serve you any benefit if you do not have a gluten allergy. Gluten-free packaged foods are just as healthy or unhealthy as their wheat counterparts. The only difference is the type of flour that is used.

If you are concerned that you may have a gluten allergy, I would strongly recommend that you visit a medical professional that will test you for the presence of any food allergies and give you further instructions.

Close out on the fad part.