‘Gluten-free products often contain artificial ingredients’

Jenna Hope is a nutritionist registered with the association For nutrition. For more, visit jennahopenutrition.com.

‘as a result of modern society’s fastpaced lives and daily stresses, many individuals are suffering with impaired gut health. this, combined with the popular gluten-free trend and rise in gluten-free products, means people have begun self-diagnosing with gluten allergies and intolerances. however, only 1% of the uk population have genuine coeliac disease. Gluten-free products are helpful for these conditions to stop sufferers missing out on treats, such as cakes and biscuits, but these products shouldn’t be eaten excessively. You’re better off focusing on a naturally gluten-free diet – your body and purse will thank you later! Some people wish to avoid gluten as they feel better without it, but they need to be aware that gluten-free products aren’t necessarily healthier. they often contain more artificial ingredients, to maintain the structure of the product, which changes when gluten is removed. and, even though an item is free from gluten, doesn’t mean that it’s free from sugar, artificial sweeteners and chemicals. What’s more, gluten-free diets can be higher in saturated fats and trans-fatty acids, as well as being worryingly low in fibre, and, in addition, you could be missing out on important vitamins and minerals too.’