Is Gluten-Free the best for Arthritis?

There have been some clear links made between celiac disease (gluten intolerance) and arthritis. Gluten is a mixture of individual proteins (prolamines and glutelins,) studies show that these proteins can contribute to the many inflammatory diseases which include Arthritis.

One clinical study found that wheat ingestion was followed within hours by increased joint swelling and pain. Experts suggest that those suffering from inflammation diseases should undertake an elimination diet for several weeks to determine whether gluten can contribute to joint pain and swelling.

Many celebrities and athletes follow a non- or low-gluten diet and fairly recently, the tennis star Novak Djokovic eliminated grain from his diet, consequently enjoyin huge success. He jumped to top spot in the rankings for the first time, replacing Rafael Nadal.

Mark Sisson, an American runner who had his career cut short with osteoarthritis and tendonitis, also followed suit - he completely transformed his diet and his joint health.

Gluten-free pasta with homemade goats cheese and flaxseed pesto - recipe coming soon

Now the confusing part!

We try to make our recipes as low in gluten as possible via gluten-free flour (in sauces, baking and when buying bread/crackers/pasta).

We do also suggest eating whole grains (such as wholemeal flour) opposed to processed carbohydrates as they are extremely high in fiber and have a low GI (see post). Unfortunately, this has nothing to do with gluten, in fact some foods which are low in gluten or gluten-free (potatoes and rice [white]) have an extremely high Glycemic index (GI). They are both very separate elements of the diet – which can be confusing!!

It is difficult to do both gluten-free and low GI but trying to incorporate one of these elements wherever possible helps with a well-rounded arthritis diet and if you can do both then even better!!

My next challenge...gluten-free, dairy-free, low GI cake - yes, cake!

Watch this space!

For more information on gluten and arthritis read ‘Managing Inflammatory Arthritis’ by Stephen Gislason available from http://www.nutramed.com/AlphaBooks.