Everyone should follow a gluten-free diet...

While there are certainly individuals who have a medical condition that requires them to avoid gluten, such as celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, there is no evidence to suggest that gluten is harmful to the general population.

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, and it is commonly found in many foods such as bread, pasta, and cereals. For people with celiac disease, gluten can cause severe damage to the lining of the small intestine, leading to malabsorption of nutrients and a range of health problems. Similarly, people with gluten sensitivity may experience symptoms such as bloating, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain when consuming gluten.

However, for people without celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, there is no evidence to suggest that gluten is harmful. In fact, many whole grains that contain gluten are important sources of nutrients such as fibre, B vitamins, and minerals. For example, whole wheat bread is a good source of fibre and can help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer.

Furthermore, following a gluten-free diet can be challenging, as it requires careful attention to food labels and may limit food choices. Gluten-free products can also be more expensive and may not always be readily available. For people without a medical need to avoid gluten, it is important to have a balanced and varied diet that includes a mix of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

In summary, while a gluten-free diet is necessary for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, there is no evidence to suggest that the general population should avoid gluten. A balanced and varied diet that includes whole grains, including those that contain gluten, is important for overall health and wellbeing.