Gluten-free myth busting: There is no biomarker for gluten sensitivity, says researcher
One of the liveliest sessions at the Whole Grains on Every Plate conference was a myth-busting presentation from Pamela Cureton, clinical research dietitian at the Center for Celiac Research.
While there is “no scientific basis” behind this theory, the belief that a gluten-free diet will help you lose weight and improve your health - even if you don’t have celiac disease - continues to gain momentum as more celebrities promote gluten-free diets, said Cureton.
But she added: “There is no evidence that gluten is harmful in healthy people without a gluten-related disorder. [And as for weight management], people on gluten-free diets often gain weight as many gluten-free foods are quite calorie dense.
“Gluten-free diets are often higher in fat and lower in vitamin B12, zinc, iron and folate.”
As for top athletes, several of whom are now advocating gluten-free living, she said: “There is no evidence that a gluten-free diet will increase sports performance.”
