New to Gluten Free Living? Avoid These Common Mistakes

BY JANE SANDWOOD

If you’ve recently joined the estimated 8.5 million individuals who eat a gluten free diet in the UK, you may still be adjusting to the change. With so much to learn about eliminating gluten from your diet, adapting to this lifestyle is no easy task.

This is especially true for those looking to lose weight while eating a gluten free diet. Even though many naturally gluten free foods are healthy, creating a meal plan that promotes weight loss is not always easy.

Finding it difficult to lose weight on a gluten free diet? Explore three of the most common barriers to losing weight while eating gluten free.

Eating too many sweets

While the recent increase in gluten free dessert options is fantastic for special occasions, eating these treats is not intended to be a daily habit.

Regular sugar consumption can boost insulin levels, which contributes to weight gain.

Gluten free sweets, whether homemade or premade, are no more nutritious than those that contain gluten.

Although it can be tempting to indulge on gluten free sweets (especially as you search for your new favourites), they should be enjoyed in moderation.

Forgetting about the importance of protein

When trying to avoid making weight loss mistakes while eating a gluten free diet, it is easy to focus on what you shouldn’t eat. However, it is also just as important to know what is beneficial to include in your diet.

Consuming foods rich in protein helps weight loss efforts by burning extra calories, and helping the body feel full.

Thankfully, one of the most accessible nutrients for those on a gluten free diet is protein. Foods such as lean meats, seafood, eggs, and beans are naturally gluten free and full of protein. When trying to lose weight on a gluten free diet, be sure to consistently eat foods high in protein.

Eating too much processed food

To help make gluten free living more enjoyable, food companies continue to release convenient, pre-packaged foods that are certified gluten free.

It is now easier than ever to find gluten free pizza, frozen entrees, pasta, bread, and more. Although it is exciting to find these foods, it is important to know that they are still as unhealthy as their gluten-filled counterparts.

Pre-packaged foods are often filled with excess sugar, sodium, calories, and fat. Therefore, it is best to stick with eating a balanced diet of naturally gluten free whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, meats, rice, and beans.

Losing weight on a gluten free diet

No matter your reason for switching to a gluten free lifestyle, adjusting to a new diet takes time. It is even more of a challenge when trying to lose weight, which is difficult by itself.

However, when you are aware of the common barriers to weight loss while eating gluten free, you can avoid unnecessary struggle. Staying positive and focused on your goals are the ultimate keys to weight loss success.

Check out our selection of healthy gluten-free recipes here ->