The Benefits of Going Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free (2024)

What do you do when a health issue arises? At first sign, most people immediately turn to medications, prescription strength pills, or over the counter remedies. Have a headache? Take an Advil. Upset stomach? Just pop a Tums. However, food can be a very powerful tool for healing your body and preventing issues from starting in the first place.

Certified personal trainer Emily Schromm suffered from gut and skin issues for years. Once she eliminated gluten and dairy from her diet, everything went away- without having to turn to drugs or medication. Even if you haven’t previously dealt with any allergies or food sensitivities, it is possible to develop reactions to certain types of foods, such as gluten or dairy, after being able to handle it for years.

Why Would I Want to go Gluten & Dairy-Free?

Skin: Gluten and dairy can trigger an inflammatory response, which can lead to skin conditions such as acne or eczema. Also, the hormones found in milk can increase oil production in the skin and clog pores. By eliminating gluten and dairy, you may see drastic changes in the appearance of your skin.

Mental Health: Depression and brain fog are common effects of eating gluten for those with a sensitivity to it. Dairy has shown to affect people’s brain and mood. Many people experience improved mood, reduced mental health issues, and a boost of energy by eliminating dairy and gluten. Going gluten-free and dairy-free may be just what you need to feel like yourself again.

Gut/Digestion: For those who can’t process gluten properly, eating it can damage the lining of the small intestine, leading to a leaky gut. When the lining is damaged, this can cause digestive issues such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, cramps, and other symptoms like irritability. Dairy is also linked to these digestion problems and has been identified as a trigger of other digestive conditions such as IBS. Cutting out gluten and/or dairy can help relieve stomach issues.

Other: Many people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease have found that their headaches went away when they stopped eating gluten. Since dairy can cause excessive mucus production, those who avoided dairy found that their sinuses and congestion cleared up.

Is Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free for Everyone?

Going gluten and dairy-free isn’t for everyone. It can be a very daunting process to take these out of your diet. Plus, some people’s bodies do well with dairy and gluten so it’s not necessary for all. However, if you are dealing with any of the issues described it’s worth it to at least try giving up gluten and dairy for some time to see how your body responds.

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The Benefits of Going Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free (2024)

FAQs

The Benefits of Going Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free? ›

Gluten-free and dairy-free diets have gained popularity in recent years, and for good reason. Many have found that avoiding these food groups can have significant health benefits, such as increased energy levels, reduced inflammation, and more!

What happens to your body when you go gluten and dairy-free? ›

The common reasons are better digestion and faster weight loss. It may also lead to a significant improvement in their energy and mood. You need to be careful about the hidden dairy and gluten content in various products that you may consume on a daily basis. Keep reading to know how to go dairy and gluten free.

Will I lose weight if I stop eating gluten and dairy? ›

A long term goal of eating a whole-foods, plant-based diet is an important part of healthy living. This type of diet may also encourage weight loss (and a better sense of well-being) because overall calorie intake may decrease. If you were overweight before starting a gluten-free diet, your weight loss may be welcome.

How long does it take for a gluten and dairy-free diet to work? ›

It might take up to several weeks for you to see a difference. Be sure to take note of symptoms such as pain levels, sleep quality, skin issues, joint pain, weight management, and overall energy.

What is a gluten and dairy-free diet called? ›

It has become known as the “anti-inflammatory diet” in some circles because a common cause for going both gluten and dairy free is digestive inflammation or discomfort. This can seem like the ultimate double-whammy of diet plans, but never fear!

How long after cutting out gluten will I feel better? ›

How Long Until Symptoms Improve? Many people report digestive symptom improvement within a few days of dropping gluten. Fatigue and brain fog often start getting better in the first week or two. This is a gradual process, though.

How does gluten free change your body? ›

A gluten-free diet may provide many health benefits, especially if you have celiac disease or a gluten-related disorder. If you do, following a gluten-free diet can help ease digestive symptoms, reduce inflammation, and boost your energy levels.

Does cutting gluten help belly fat? ›

Bottom Line. Although a gluten-free diet is the primary treatment for celiac disease and may help to alleviate symptoms in various conditions related to gluten sensitivity, there is currently no evidence showing that a gluten-free diet is effective for weight loss or for general health benefits.

What are the first signs of being gluten intolerant? ›

What are the symptoms of gluten intolerance?
  • Abdominal pain.
  • Anemia.
  • Anxiety.
  • Bloating or gas.
  • Brain fog, or trouble concentrating.
  • Depression.
  • Diarrhea or constipation.
  • Fatigue.
Jun 30, 2021

What does gluten belly look like? ›

The intestines make up most of the middle and lower abdomen, so “gluten belly” will look like any other type of lower digestive tract bloating. However, if bloating seems to be a regular or constant problem, that's a possible sign that it may be due to gluten intolerance.

What does detoxing from gluten feel like? ›

When gluten is withdrawn abruptly from the diet, certain susceptible individuals may experience a wide range of withdrawal symptoms, including, but not limited to, nausea, extreme hunger, anxiety, depression and dizziness.

How long does it take to detox from dairy? ›

So, how long does dairy stay in your system? Dairy may be digested in as little as 1-2 hours. Some people may take up to 72 hours to digest and eliminate dairy. But traces of dairy may remain in the system for 21 days.

Does peanut butter contain gluten? ›

Living gluten-free can be a challenge. It's important to know that peanuts, peanut butter, peanut flour and peanut oil are considered naturally gluten-free foods. Gluten is a form of protein found in wheat, barley and rye (2).

Are gluten and dairy inflammatory? ›

While not everyone is gluten or lactose intolerant, many people still react to these foods causing inflammation throughout the body. Remember, it's not the gluten and dairy itself that's the culprit, but how we've cultivated them over the past century, which has made them inflammatory.

What foods are naturally gluten and dairy-free? ›

Gluten Free and Dairy Free Foods:
  • Rice.
  • Beans and legumes.
  • Fruits.
  • Vegetables.
  • Eggs.
  • Corn.
  • Flax.
  • Quinoa.
May 10, 2023

What are the benefits of cutting dairy out of your diet? ›

Going dairy-free often results in more consistent digestion, AKA less bloating, gas, and cramps, and a regulated “schedule.” Avoid hormones and antibiotics. Dairy farms are no small operation, and dairy farmers are always looking to optimize production and maximize output.

What happens to your body when you cut out gluten dairy and sugar? ›

“You'll see clearer skin, reduced bloating, weight loss, more energy, and better sleep. Most people don't realize how good they can really feel until they try it.”

What are the symptoms of dairy withdrawal? ›

A: Cutting out dairy might improve your gut and digestive health. You may notice your skin clearing up - and an overall reduction of inflammation. On the other hand, you may also see some withdrawal symptoms like weakness and nausea, besides missing out on nutrients like calcium, vitamin B12, and vitamin D.

Is gluten and dairy-free healthier? ›

Those with autoimmune conditions (like Hashimotos Thyroiditis, for example) will often greatly benefit from a gluten and dairy free diet, since this type of protocol will help with gut healing and decrease inflammation,” adds Presicci.

What are the side effects of eating gluten when you are gluten free? ›

People may experience the following symptoms for several hours or days after they consume gluten:
  • Abdominal pain.
  • Anemia.
  • Anxiety.
  • Bloating or gas.
  • Brain fog, or trouble concentrating.
  • Depression.
  • Diarrhea or constipation.
  • Fatigue.
Jun 30, 2021

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