How Gluten is Ruining Your Fitness Goals

When I first meet with new clients, they often do not understand the impact of gluten on our fitness goals. Whether you're trying to lose weight, gain muscle, or improve your health, understanding gluten's role is key. 

Let's break down what this pesky thing is….gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It's in foods like bread, pasta, and many processed items. Some people avoid it due to gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. 

Gluten can cause inflammation and bloating, making weight loss harder. Many gluten foods are high in calories and low in nutrition, so avoiding them can help if you are trying to clean up your meals.

When it comes to working out, gluten can play a role in your results…or lack of results! Gluten can affect nutrient absorption, hindering muscle recovery and growth. It can also lead to being more tired which leads to less effective workouts.

In 2013, my husband and I decided to go wheat-free after reading Wheat Belly: Lose the Wheat, Lose the Weight, and Find Your Path Back to Health. We cleared out our cabinets and began the experiment without any specific medical issues or health concerns, simply curious about the potential benefits. Within the first week, we noticed increased energy and mental clarity, realizing we had been feeling less than optimal before eliminating gluten.

Going gluten-free doesn't have to be complicated. Start by focusing on naturally gluten-free foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and most dairy products. When shopping, look for gluten-free labels on packaged foods and explore the growing variety of gluten-free options available. 

For a simple meal idea, try a quinoa salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette. Another easy option is a stir-fry with chicken, broccoli, bell peppers, and gluten-free soy sauce served over brown rice. With a few mindful choices, enjoying a gluten-free diet can be both delicious and hassle-free!

One of my clients cut out gluten and saw amazing results. She came to me feeling that she was stuck in a plateau. With her custom macros set, she avoided gluten and focused on eating the right amount of the right foods. She told me in the first week she could see and feel a difference in her core, just by changing the way she ate.

If you have noticed that your foods may be impacting your sleep or energy levels, please reach out to me. I would love to share a few resources I have to help you navigate this and determine if removing gluten from your meals will help.