Is Going Gluten Free the Next Fad Diet?

Abstract

GLUTEN-FREE DIETINGHAS gained considerable popularity. Once regarded as a niche product that was of interest only to individuals who could not tolerate gluten, gluten-free products have been transformed quickly into a mainstream sensation. According to a 2012 report, the US gluten-free market reached an estimated $4.2 billion in retail sales. The consumer survey by Packaged Facts shows that 18% of adults are buying or consuming food products tagged as gluten free. The market for gluten-free products is exploding as a result of multiple triggers. The federal government in the United States is in the process of finalizing regulatory criteria for voluntary gluten-free labeling. This proposed action is in response to the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004. On the marketing side, many large food companies are converting popular brands to gluten-free status. There has been a shift in the retail distribution of gluten-free products as demonstrated by the surge in sales and the number of gluten-free products carried by supermarkets. On the consumer side, the demand has increased exponentially because consumers believe gluten-free products are generally healthier and will provide relief from various disorders or enhance weight loss. According to the September 2012 issue of the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, there is no evidencebased research to support a benefit for the general population to followa gluten-free diet. The commentary debunks the diet craze that gluten free is an effective way to lose weight and suggests that a gluten-free diet may actually lead to weight gain because these products contain more added fats and carbohydrates. Gluten-free products offer no specific advantages to the healthy population and are about 2 to 3 times as expensive as a gluten-containing equivalent product. Some commercially prepared gluten-free baked items could be made with refined flours and starches that are low in fiber and protein and do not contain iron, folic acid, and other B vitamins that