Gluten and Glyphosate

What is Gluten?

Grains like wheat, barley, and rye have a family of proteins called gluten. It is what gives bread its chewiness and allows dough to rise when it is baked. Gluten can be found in many food products from pasta to cereals as well as some cosmetics and drugs.

What is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease happens when consuming gluten triggers an autoimmune response in individuals with certain genetic markers. If celiac disease patients consume gluten, their immune systems will respond by attacking the lining of small intestines resulting in nutrients malabsorption among other gastrointestinal (GI) disorders as well as non-GI symptoms.

What Causes Celiac Disease And Gluten Intolerance?

A number of genetic factors along with consumption of gluten as well as other environmental triggers lead to celiac disease. On the other hand, those who suffer from gluten intolerance or non-celiac gluten sensitivity have similar symptoms to celiac disease but lack intestinal damage due to autoimmune reaction.

Is Glyphosate a Real Concern?

Glyphosate is a herbicide known for its use in agriculture to manage weeds. There are concerns about its effects on health including an unproven allegation of link with celiac disease and gluten intolerance.

Where and When is Glyphosate Used?

Glyphosate is used in crop production especially genetically modified organisms designed to be resistant to it. It is applied before planting and in some cases before harvest to dry crops making them easier to harvest.

What for?

Its major purpose is to control invasive weeds that compete with crops for nutrients. It helps in desiccation (drying) of crops before harvesting so as to have uniform and timely harvests.

Should We Be Worried About Glyphosate?

There are debates about whether glyphosate is safe or not. Some studies even suggest that it could be a cause of ill-health but others indicate no significant risk at all. Different countries’ regulatory bodies have been consistently reviewing the scientific data for advice on its usage.

Should Gluten be Omitted from Our Diet?

For those with celiac disease, gluten is a medical necessity to avoid. Nonetheless, for the general population without a gluten-related disorder, there is no scientific evidence that following a gluten-free diet bestows any health benefits.

The Most Important Thing About Gluten

Gluten is safe for most individuals. Those who have celiac disease or gluten intolerance should avoid it but for everyone else, gluten may be part of a healthy and balanced diet.

In Conclusion

Informed dietary and lifestyle choices are hinged on understanding what gluten and glyphosate are. For people suffering from celiac diseases and those with gluten sensitivity disorders, avoidance of gluten is necessary. The concerns about glyphosate are real and it’s advisable that one stays informed through credible researches as well as regulatory updates.

Call to Action

It’s important to stay informed whether you have a disorder related to gluten or simply want to make healthy decisions. Look at the labels, consult health professionals, select whole foods in their natural state whenever possible. Advocate for transparent food labeling requirements that support environmental practices promoting human as well as planetary health. Because your voice counts.