Myths and Facts about Gluten-Free Food

19 March, 2025

Gluten-free eating has become increasingly popular in recent years, but it has also led to a lot of misconceptions. Is it really necessary to cut out gluten for a healthier lifestyle? Let’s debunk some of the most common myths and set the record straight.

Myth 1: Everyone should avoid gluten

Fact: Only individuals with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity truly need to eliminate gluten from their diets.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition where gluten damages the small intestine.
Non-celiac gluten sensitivity causes digestive discomfort without harming the body.
However, the majority of people do not need to avoid gluten to maintain good health. Unless medically necessary, there’s no proven benefit to cutting out gluten entirely.

Myth 2: Gluten-free food is always healthier

Fact: Just because a product is gluten-free doesn’t mean it’s automatically better for you.

While a gluten-free diet can be beneficial when balanced and based on whole, natural foods, many processed gluten-free options—like breads and crackers—may contain higher amounts of sugars and starches to mimic the texture that gluten provides.
Instead of focusing solely on eliminating gluten, it’s essential to choose high-quality ingredients that promote overall well-being.

Myth 3: Gluten causes weight gain

Fact: Gluten itself is not responsible for weight gain; rather, it’s the balance of calories consumed versus calories burned.

Some gluten-free products are calorie-dense due to added sugars and fats, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.
Maintaining a healthy weight is more about portion control and balanced eating rather than simply removing gluten from your diet.

The Bottom Line

A gluten-free diet isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for better health. For those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, avoiding gluten is essential. But for others, it’s more important to focus on the quality and balance of foods rather than simply cutting out gluten.

If you’re curious to explore gluten-free options, try our delectable DeOrno gluten-free products. Indulge in the taste of gourmet baking while enjoying the benefits of our thoughtfully crafted recipes.