When you think of gluten-free restaurants in Palo Alto , pizzerias might not immediately come to mind. But it is entirely possible to enjoy a delicious slice or two of deep-dish pizza without all the negative consequences that gluten can cause in people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. If one of these conditions affects you, then you will notice many health benefits when you start to eat gluten-free, including:
Better Digestion
The main symptom of gluten sensitivity and celiac disease is difficulty digesting food after consuming gluten. This prevents people who suffer from these diseases from enjoying foods that contain this protein, because afterwards they may feel stomach cramps, bloating, and other unpleasant symptoms, along with more unpleasant side effects like gas and diarrhea. In fact, gluten intolerance may present with symptoms similar to irritable bowel syndrome. If you cannot eat gluten, you can continue enjoying your favorite dishes, such as Chicago-style pizza, in gluten-free versions. A gluten-free pizza will not cause the same stomach and digestive problems that regular pizza can cause in people with this food sensitivity.
Improved Cognition
When a person with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity consumes a product containing gluten, molecules known as cytokines can enter the bloodstream through their digestive system. Cytokines can cause inflammation, and elevated levels of cytokines in the bloodstream may have led some sensitive eaters to report muddled thinking, headaches, and attention problems. Eliminate gluten, and you might find yourself thinking more clearly, without the aid of stimulants such as caffeine.
Increased Energy Levels
Sometimes, gluten sensitivity can prevent a person’s digestive system from absorbing all the vitamins and minerals that he or she needs from food. This can lead to anemia and other nutrient deficiencies, which in turn affect energy levels. If you find that you feel lethargic, fatigued, or otherwise tired after eating breads, pizza, and other foods that contain high levels of gluten, consider switching to a gluten-free diet after consulting a nutritionist, and see if you feel any more energetic.