Grain Free VS Gluten Free Diets

The terms "grain free" and "gluten free" are often used interchangeable, but there are 
important differences to keep in mind if you are in the process of determining which diet 
is right for you. While gluten is found in many grains, it does not come from all grains. 
This is one of several reasons being grain-free is different from following a gluten-free 
lifestyle. Here's what else you need to know about the differences between these two 
diets and the reasons why people often follow each one.

Wheat Allergies, Grain Sensitivity, and Gluten Intolerance

Health issues are sometimes a consideration when choosing a diet. If you have a wheat 
allergy, eating certain grain products could produce symptoms that include nasal 
congestion, throat swelling, or respiratory issues. Wheat allergies often develop during 
infancy and are sometimes outgrown. Some people also have a grain intolerance that 
extends to rice, oats, and other non-wheat grains.

An inability to digest gluten properly is gluten intolerance. If you have gluten intolerance, 
celiac disease, or sensitivity to gluten, you'll likely benefit from a diet free of gluten and 
foods with gluten-containing ingredients since a grain-free diet does not eliminate all 
sources of gluten from your diet. Another option is to adopt a grain-free diet and couple 
it with an avoidance of gluten-containing foods.

Similarities 

Gluten-free and grain-free diets have some similarities, especially with what your diet 
will primarily consist of when following either one of these diets. With both diets, your 
main food sources will be:

*	Leafy greens
*	Fresh fruits and veggies
*	Protein sources like beans

Differences

Going grain-free means you will be mainly eliminating wheat products and whole and 
refined grains from your diet, including gluten-free grains like barley, oats, rice, and 
corn. However, products not technically considered grains (e.g., buckwheat, quinoa) are 
permitted in limited amount. There are also no restrictions on:

• Meat or fish products
• Eggs
• Sugar
• Dairy products

If you are going gluten-free, you will be eliminating all wheat products from your diet 
plus non-grain sources of gluten like baked goods, sauces, and gravies. You'll also have 
to avoid foods with gluten-containing ingredients like bran, emmer, panko, and udon. 
Permitted foods on a gluten-free diet include:

Meat, poultry, and fish
Dairy products

Avoiding Unhealthy Gluten Alternatives

One of the potential drawbacks of a gluten-free diet for some people is an increased 
reliance on starchy gluten alternatives like gluten-free bread, rice, and potatoes. There 
are also gluten-free alternatives to beer and flour for use in baking. While you may still 
meet the standards for going gluten-free by turning to alternative options, you could be 
consuming unhealthy calories. With a grain-free diet, you'll still be able to have complex 
carbohydrates, but in moderation.

Should you have a severe allergy to wheat, a grain-free diet will likely benefit you. If you 
have celiac disease, you may also benefit from a grain-free diet, but you'll have to take 
steps to avoid other sources of gluten like some processed meats and cream-based 
soups and certain types of candy. Even if you're not allergic to wheat or gluten intolerant 
or sensitive, a grain-free diet is worth considering since there are fewer restrictions. 
However, you'll still be cutting calories and enjoying many potential health benefits.

