Gluten-Free Diet Does Not Lead To Weight Loss – Study

A U.S. scientist reports that he could find no evidence that a gluten-free diet offers health benefits or promotes weight loss in the general population. Only one percent of Americans suffers from celiac disease, and another six percent suffers from gluten sensitivity. These people need to avoid gluten – a protein found in wheat, barley and rye – in all foods they eat. For the rest of the population, gluten may provide important benefits, such as supporting heart, gut and immune system health. A gluten-free diet does not lead to weight loss, either. In fact, according to Glenn Gaesser, Ph.D., it may promote weight gain, because gluten-free products contain more added fats and sugars.