Gluten is the protein in wheat, barley, rye, spelt, Kamut and triticale. Some people have an intolerance to it. A large degree of the population does not assimilate dairy very well, either, says nationally known nutritionist and bestselling author Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D.
Food Intolerance
Eliminating foods the body is intolerant of, such as dairy and wheat, can be helpful in a variety of ways. For example, the body is better able to absorb nutrients, Gittleman says.
However, not everyone reacts to a food intolerance in the same way, Gittleman notes, so other benefits of removing the offending food will vary.
Alleviate Symptoms
Dropping gluten can help people who have an intolerance, protect bones, get rid of canker sores and alleviate various aches and pains, she said.
Avoiding gluten and dairy can also alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms--including bloating, gas, diarrhea and other symptoms related to an irritable bowel syndrome diagnosis, adds Judy D. Simon, registered dietitian with the University of Washington's Family Medicine Department.
Other Advantages
Other advantages of eliminating gluten can include: improved condition of the skin, including reduced problems with eczema, psoriasis and breakouts; a reduced number of migraines; and improvement in vague, general symptoms of malaise. Anecdotal evidence points to reduction in pain for certain types of arthritis, though Simon notes more definitive research is needed. Eliminating gluten can also help cut the amount of processed food in your diet. Eliminating dairy can reduce phlegm production, which can make you less stuffy and congested.
Mindful Eating
If nothing else, Simon says, eliminating wheat and dairy can lead to an increased awareness of what and how much you are eating. "You think about everything you put in your mouth. That can be an advantage and can decrease mindless eating," she says. "It really forces you to be mindful."
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