Is Gluten Free REALLY Better

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We look at what gluten is and if it is unhealthy, since more gluten free products are becoming available on the market currently.

What is gluten?

Gluten is the protein found in grains (especially wheat). It is what causes the elasticity of dough and gives things like bread its chewy texture. The name gluten comes from the Latin word for glue, because it helps to hold dough together as it is turned into bread. It is obtained by washing the starch out of flour and is also used to make synthetic meat products for vegetarians and add protein to their diets, since gluten is a protein.

Where does gluten come from?

Gluten is most commonly found in wheat. It also comes from other grains like rye and barley. Gluten is often found in bread, chips (crisps AND fries), beer, pasta, and many sauces, dressings and soups.  

Is gluten bad for you?

Gluten is not bad for you, unless you have Celiac disease, gluten intolerance or are allergic to wheat. 

Who shouldnt eat gluten?

People who have Celiac disease should not eat gluten. This disease makes the small intestine very sensitive to gluten, which leads to difficulty digesting food and inflammation (causing damage) of the small intestine when gluten is consumed. Gluten intolerance is a condition where the body has an abnormal immune response when gluten is broken down in the body. There are also people who are allergic to wheat, who should avoid all wheat and gluten products.

How do you know if you have Celiac disease?

 The number one reason that leads people to seek diagnosis is gastrointestinal stress after eating bread and other wheat products. It is recommended that you dont cut out gluten completely before seeking medical advice and diagnosis, because there have been reports of people who experienced gastrointestinal distress after eating gluten products, cut out all forms of gluten and then taken blood tests through a doctor to determine if they are gluten intolerant or have this disease. Because gluten has not been in their system, there are no gluten antibodies in their bloodstream, which blood tests should have detected in order to diagnose the disease. Seek professional medical advice before cutting out gluten completely in order to aid a more accurate diagnosis.

These are the signs that you might be gluten intolerant:

• You experience gastrointestinal distress after consuming gluten products (like bread).
• You have serious gastrointestinal problems often (like diarrhea, bloating, abdominal pain, or weight loss)
• You experience symptoms of iron, vitamin B, and folate deficiency, because the small intestine is responsible for absorbing these nutrients and this disease affects this part of the intestine.
• You have a family history of this condition, as it can be hereditary. 

Gluten free diets are used to treat people with this condition.

Are there people who shouldnt worry about gluten?

Yes. A gluten free diet is specifically designed for people who are gluten intolerant. If you are not gluten intolerant, then gluten is not bad for you, as long as you are not eating too much of it (like any food). Any food product can be considered unhealthy if it is consumed in too large an amount.

Are there benefits to going gluten free even if you are not sensitive to gluten?

Some scientists are concerned that those without gluten intolerance who follow a gluten free diet are missing out on nutrient rich foods and therefore might suffer from lack of important nutrients. 

There are many gluten free products now offered in supermarket stores, including products that would generally have gluten such as bread and pasta. Note that wheat free does not mean gluten free! If you are considering a gluten-free diet, consult with a dietitian to make sure that you still eat a diet that has all the necessary nutrients needed for optimal health, and that the foods you eat will be gluten free, since many products contain gluten, such as some vitamin products that use gluten as a binding agent.

Many people consider gluten free diets as a healthy choice, even if they are not gluten free. Here are a few reasons why:

• Gluten free diets eliminate foods that are unhealthy. For example, processed foods often contain gluten. Choosing more natural foods that wont include gluten will include healthier options like fruits, vegetables and meats without sauces and marinades. Additionally, fried foods are also eliminated as the breading, coating and crumbing of these foods contain gluten.
• By avoiding heavily processed foods, you are also avoiding the added chemicals like artificial flavoring, coloring, preservatives, stabilizers and enhancers.
• As mentioned above, this forces people to eat more natural foods like fruit and vegetables that are unprocessed.
• Other unhealthy foods are avoided like oils, pastries and sugars (sweets, candy bars, etc.)
• By eating fresh, unprocessed foods, you are indirectly adding natural nutrients like antioxidants, fiber, minerals and vitamins to your diet that were previously lacking
• Gluten free products on the market are usually a lot healthier than their gluten containing counterparts

It is possible to gain all these health benefits while still consuming gluten, by eating a large portion of fresh foods like fruit and vegetables and minimizing the amount of processed foods consumed. Eating fresh and as natural (least processed) as possible will yield the same health benefits.

A gluten free diet is not a must for people who are not gluten intolerant, and its potential health benefits can be obtained in a gluten-present diet by eating as natural as possible and eating a well-balanced diet. Stay Strong!

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Minerals and Electrolytes Continued

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This article is a continuation of The Importance of Electrolytes and Minerals , with more information about Magnesium, Iron, Cobalt, Zinc, Manganese, Molybdenum, Iodine and Selenium.

To read about what basics of what minerals are, the difference between electrolytes and minerals and their importance in our bodies (along with individual information about calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, sodium and chlorine), follow the link above. 

Magnesium 

Magnesium is an electrolyte that is present in a relatively large amount in the body. 

Magnesiums Function in the Body

Magnesium is involved in over 300 enzyme systems and biochemical processes in the body. These include protein synthesis, energy production and expenditure, muscle function, glucose levels, and blood pressure systems.

Magnesium Deficiency

Most people dont have enough magnesium in their bodies. One of the reasons for this is because carbonated drinks and junk foods generally contain high levels of the phosphate mineral, which in excess amounts decreases the amount of magnesium in the body. Deficiency symptoms may include:

• Muscle Weakness
• Muscle Tics and Twitches
• Muscle Tremors
• Spasms and Cramps
• Excess Blood Glucose
• Difficulty Swallowing
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Depression
• Behavior Disturbances 
• Insomnia
• Chronic Fatigue and Lethargy
• Impaired Memory and Brain Function
• Irregular Heart Rhythms and Irregular Heart Beats
• Seizures
• Epilepsy
• Headaches and Migraines
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Calcium and Potassium Deficiency
• Osteoporosis
• Chest Pain
• Anorexia
• Loss of Appetite
• Diabetes

Magnesium Overload

Your body will naturally dispose of excess magnesium, so unless you have kidney disease or your kidneys arent able to function properly, magnesium overload shouldnt be of much concern. It is, however, possible to overdose on this mineral through pills or supplementation. Many medicines are high in magnesium. People with kidney disease are at the highest risk of deficiency. Symptoms can include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Lowered Blood Pressure
• Muscle Weakness
• Abdominal Pain
• Lower Back Pain
• Pelvic Pain
• Chest Pain
• Mental Confusion
• Rapid Heart Rate
• Difficulty Breathing
• Shortness of Breath
• Cardiac Arrest

Keeping the Balance

Eating fresh and healthy foods, using less medicine and staying away from junk foods and carbonated drinks will ensure that you dont overload your system with magnesium, whilst getting enough of the mineral though your diet at the same time.

Good Sources of Magnesium

Magnesium can be naturally obtained through fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, grains and fish. Here is a list of foods that are high in magnesium:

• Avocados
• Bananas
• Dried Fruits (prunes, raisins, apricots and dates)
• White Beans
• Soy Beans
• French Beans
• Black-Eyed Peas
• Kidney Beans
• Chickpeas
• Pinto Beans
• Swiss Chard
• Spinach
• Kale
• Collard
• Almonds
• Brazil Nuts
• Cashews
• Pine Nuts
• Peanuts
• Pecans
• Walnuts
• Seeds
• Fish
• Diary
• Grains
• Diary

Iron

Iron is an Electrolyte.

Irons Function in the Body

Iron is essential as the body uses it through the red blood cells to transport precious oxygen throughout the body. Without iron your body will not be able to make enough red blood cells to sustain life, which is why iron deficiency (which is more prevalent than iron overload) leads to lack of energy, since the body is not getting enough oxygen distributed to where it is needed. Iron is also important in the growth and maintenance of all cells within the body like your hair, skin and nails. Woman need more iron than men because of menstruation (blood loss), and also during pregnancy. After menopause their iron needs drop to the same as men. Children are more sensitive to iron, needing more than adults as their bodies are growing, but are also more affected by iron overload.

Iron Deficiency

Around 10% of woman in America have an iron deficiency. The biggest symptom of iron deficiency is a lack of energy, lethargy and decreased physical performance. Iron deficiency leads to the lack of oxygen throughout the body, which leads to many other health concerns like less energy, impaired brain function and a hampered immune system. The following are symptoms of iron deficiency:

• An Overall Pale Or Whitened Look
• Lack Of Energy And Lethargy
• Decreased Immune System
• Impaired Brain Function
• Shortness Of Breath
• A Faster Heartbeat
• Poor Blood Circulation (Like Cold Hands And Feet)
• Brittle Hair And Nails
• Hair Loss
• Mouth And Tongue Sores
• Difficulty Swallowing

Iron Overload

Although not as prevalent, iron overload is possible and can also be very dangerous. Too much iron is toxic to the body. Too much iron (usually as a result of excess supplementation) can lead to:

• Diarrhea 
• Nausea And Vomiting
• Abdominal Pain
• Dehydration
• Bloody Stools
• Cirrhosis
• Heart Failure
• Diabetes
• Death

Keeping the Balance

It is best to always eat fresh and healthy foods, which is what nature intended. Too much medicines and taking more than the recommended dosage of multi vitamins can cause iron imbalances, but eating good natural food wont. Eating a balanced diet including fruits, vegetables and varied meats should be enough to keep a healthy iron balance. 

Good Sources of Iron

Iron is best absorbed into the body through the consumption of red meat. To a lesser extent, it can also be obtained through fortified cereals, fruits, and legumes. 

Cobalt

Cobalt is electrolyte. It is needed in very small amounts in our diets, but it is essential. Cobalt is stored in the liver, pancreas, kidneys, spleen, red blood cells and plasma.

Cobalts Function in the Body

Cobalt forms a part of vitamin B12, and is used along with iron for red blood cell production and oxygen delivery systems. It also helps with nerve coverings. Cobalt can be used to prevent iron deficiency. Cobalt is mostly known (and is thought to be mostly useful to the body) as an integral part of vitamin B12. It is essential for pancreas function.

Cobalt Deficiency

Deficiency of cobalt isnt likely if you get enough vitamin B12. Since cobalt and B12 are so closely interlinked, the symptoms of cobalt deficiency are often confused with (or the same as) vitamin B12 deficiency:

• Fatigue
• Muscle Weakness, Numbness and Tingling
• Atrophy
• Weight Loss
• Iron Deficiency
• Nausea
• Nerve Damage and Nerve Disorders
• Problems With Cell Formation
• Scaly Skin
• Impaired Brain Function

Cobalt Overload

Cobalt poisoning usually happens when cobalt enters into the body in its inorganic form (as plain cobalt, before the mineral transforms into a form our bodies can use by being absorbed by plants first). Cobalt overload isnt of much concern, but symptoms of cobalt overload are:

• Heart Problems
• Nerve Issues
• Blood Thickening
• Thyroid Issues

Keeping the Balance

As long as you are getting enough vitamin B12 you should not be cobalt deficient or overloaded (both are very rare). Keeping the balance of cobalt in your body is not of much concern.  

Good Sources of Cobalt

Foods which contain cobalt are red meats, poultry, fish, clams, oysters and milk. Plants which come from the sea have higher levels of cobalt than land plants. However, spinach, cabbage, lettuce, figs and legumes also contain smaller amounts of cobalt.

Copper

Copper is a trace mineral (needed in small quantities) that is essential for life. It is found in the muscles, liver, kidneys, heart and brain.

Coppers Function in the Body

Copper is used to absorb iron, create collagen and make energy.  

Copper Deficiency 

Copper deficiency is rare, but will have the following symptoms:

• Skin and Hair Color Loss (Whitening Or Going Pale)
• Low Immune System
• Increased Infections
• Osteoporosis
• Stunted Growth
• Problems With Neurological Function
• Not Enough White Blood Cells
• Break Down Of Body Tissues

Copper Overload

Copper overload can have the following effects:

• Jaundice
• Gastrointestinal Distress
• Liver Cirrhosis
• Red Blood Cell Abnormalities
• Cardiovascular Disease

Keeping the Balance

Simply adding nuts and sea food to your diet regularly will allow your body to get the copper that your body needs without overloading. By eating healthy foods, you are getting a variety of nutrients that work together and balance each other out. Supplements should only be used to add a little extra to your nutritional needs, not replace a good diet. 

Good Sources of Copper

Foods Containing Copper Are:

• Beef Liver
• Other Organ Meats
• Oysters
• Crab
• Mushrooms
• Nuts
• Lentils
• Chocolate

Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral. 

Zincs Function in the Body

Zinc is needed for cellular metabolism and required for around 100 different enzymes in the body. It is also needed for cell division and DNA synthesis. Zinc is needed for functioning taste and smell and is involved in the healing of wounds, protein synthesis and maintaining a strong immune system.  

Zinc Deficiency

Being deficient of zinc could have the following effects and symptoms:

• Lowered Immune System
• Loss Of Appetite
• Hair Loss
• Diarrhea
• Impotence
• Skin Lesions
• Longer Healing Time (Cuts Could Take Abnormally Long To Heal)
• Lethargy
• Weight Loss

Zinc Overload

Zinc overload is possible (generally from over supplementation) and can lead to:

• Nausea And Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Head aches
• Abdominal Cramps
• Low Copper Levels
• Inability To Use Iron Properly In The Body
• Urination problems

Keeping the Balance

It is always important not to abuse vitamin and mineral supplements or take more than the recommended dose, as this can have adverse effects when the body gets overloaded with too much of a certain mineral like zinc. By eating a diet balanced with fresh produce and different meats, the body is highly likely to get all the different nutrients that it needs to run optimally. 

Good Sources of Zinc

You can get zinc from the following foods:

• Oysters
• Red Meat
• Poultry
• Beans
• Nuts
• Other Seafood
• Grains
• Dairy 

Manganese

Manganese is an important trace mineral, which our bodies need to get through our diets daily.

Manganeses Function in the Body

Manganese is important for protection from free radical damage, bone production, skin maintenance and even blood sugar control. Manganese is also used for nerve and brain functions.

Manganese Deficiency

The typical American diet provides for enough manganese consumption, although excessive sweating can cause loss of manganese. Deficiency of manganese can lead to the following:

• Impaired Growth
• Twitches
• Osteoporosis
• Skin Problems And Skin Rashes
• High Blood Sugar
• Diabetes
• Hampered Fat and Carbohydrate Metabolism 
• Asthma
• Seizures
• Epilepsy
• Ataxia

Manganese Overload

It seems that it is almost impossible to overload manganese from food alone. Effects of overload (usually from supplements) are:

• Hallucinations
• Mental Confusion
• Psychiatric Illness
• Neurological Disorders
• Loss Of appetite
• Impaired Brain Function
• Kidney Failure
• Impotence
• Parkinsons Disease
• Central Nervous System Disorders

Keeping the Balance

You should be getting enough manganese from our diet and wont need additional manganese from supplements unless you have a medical condition which could affect you otherwise.

Good Sources of Manganese

Manganese can be found in plant foods and can be found in the following:

• Cloves
• Oats
• Brown Rice
• Spinach
• Basil
• Garlic
• Garbanzo Beans
• Pumpkin Seeds
• Pineapple
• Tempeh
• Rye
• Soybeans

Molybdenum

Molybdenum is a mineral and chemical element. It is stored in the liver and kidneys, as well as the bones, glands, skin, lungs and muscles. Around 90% of the Molybdenum we digest is excreted through urination.

Molybdenums Function in the Body

Molybdenum helps the body break down proteins, helps get rid of waist and toxins, protects cells, and helps with energy levels. It is also an anti-oxidant. It works with iron to perform irons role in the body and has been successfully used to help the body with the metabolizing of drugs and minimizing the negative impact of medicine and cancer treatments, but more research is needed to understand this further.

Molybdenum Deficiency

Molybdenum deficiency is very uncommon (even rare). You need around 45 micrograms of Molybdenum a day. Since deficiency is so uncommon and not of great concern compared to other deficiencies, more research is needed to define, with accuracy, the actual effects of molybdenum deficiency. According to clinical research thus far, deficiencies could lead to:

• Respiratory Problems
• Heart Problems
• Decreased Eye health
• Mouth, Teeth and Gum Problems
• Iron Deficiency

Molybdenum Overload

Molybdenum intake should not exceed 2 mg per day for adults. Overload can lead to:

• Gout
• Neurological Problems
• Organ Damage
• Seizures

Keeping the Balance

We generally get the right (not too much,  not too little) amounts of this mineral if we eat a healthy, balanced diet and therefore following a good diet will help to keep this balance right in our bodies. Diets which are too high in processed and refined foods with little fresh, natural foods could possibly skew the right balance of molybdenum in our bodies (along with almost all the other minerals our bodies need).

Good Sources of Molybdenum

• Dairy Products
• Grains
• Nuts
• Legumes
• Leafy Greens
• Cauliflower
• Potatoes
• Organ Meats
• Drinking Water

Iodine

Iodine is a mineral which plays a vital role in our hormone functions.

Iodines Function in the Body

The body needs iodine for thyroid hormone production, which control metabolism, growth and development. It is also vital for central nervous system development.

Iodine Deficiency

Iodine deficiency is common worldwide and can be particularly problematic for woman during pregnancy, which can cause issues for both the mother and the baby.

• Enlarged thyroid glands
• Thyroid Cancer
• Increased Risk for Other Cancers
• Ceasing to Ovulate (In Woman)
• Stunted Growth
• Mental Retardation
• Issues with Brain Development

Iodine Overload

Iodine overload is also possible, usually through excessive supplementation or medicines containing high levels of iodine. Overload symptoms can include:

• Thyroid Problems
• Having a Metallic Taste
• Mouth Soreness (Including Teeth and Gums)
• Burning Sensations and Inflammation in the Mouth and Throat
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Depression
• Skin Problems

Keeping the Balance

Including seafood in the diet every now and then (about twice a week or more) will give the body the chance to fill up its iodine stores and eating a well-balanced diet will also ensure that the body gets this micronutrient daily. Trying to minimize medicine intake and not exceeding supplement recommended doses also help to ensure that the balance isnt tipped the other way, either.

Good Sources of Iodine

Seaweed is very high in iodine. 

• Iodized Table Salt
• Seaweed
• Seafood (sea plants, fish and crustaceans have high iodine levels)
• Dairy Products
• Meat
• Eggs
• Cranberries
• Beans
• Strawberries
• Potatoes

Selenium

Selenium is an important mineral that the body needs.

Seleniums Function in the Body

Selenium helps with preventing cell damage and antioxidant enzyme production. It also helps with hormone production and immune strength. It is also needed for reproduction.  

Selenium Deficiency

Selenium deficiency is not common in humans, since we generally get enough of this mineral through our diets. 

• Heart Disease
• Moodiness
• Joint and Bone Disease
• Mental Disability

Selenium Overload

This is also rare for people in eating a first-world diet. This can lead to:

• Hair Loss
• Nail Problems
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Nausea
• Nerve Damage

Keeping the Balance

Selenium levels in the body are not usually of health concern to people eating the typical American diet. However, more research needs to be done regarding the health effects of this important trace mineral.

Good Sources of Selenium

Plant sources contain high levels of selenium in comparison to other food sources.

• Garlic
• Grains
• Fish
• Shellfish
• Meat (red and white)
• Eggs

Final Word of the Day

This easiest way to implement the information here is to eat whole, natural, fresh foods and to decrease the amount of refined and processed foods that we eat. Additionally, by varying between vegetable, grain, nut, legume, fruit, diary, seafood, fish, meat and egg foods, we are able to get the fast majority of minerals that we need without needing to check up on each mineral individually. By varying the healthy foods that we eat, we also make sure that we get the varieties of other micronutrients that we need like vitamins, antioxidants, omega fatty acids, carotenoids, and phytonutrients. STAY STRONG!

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