Hi from the team at Allergywise
In recent years, there’s been a lot of talk around specialised diets, and they’ve become quite popular as solutions for various health concerns. People have found they work for tackled digestive issues, relief from skin conditions, and helping with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). While some are essential for those with specific health conditions, many New Zealander’s who don’t have these ailments have jumped on board and reported feeling better overall.
But, before you dive into any dietary changes, it’s important to really think things through and understand what’s best for your personal health needs and goals. Here are a few things to consider when deciding if a specialised diet, like going gluten-free, trying an elimination diet, testing out the FODMAP diet, or cutting back on carbs, is the right fit for you. Let’s take a closer look.
Coeliac Disease Diagnosis
If you’ve been diagnosed with coeliac disease, going gluten-free isn’t a choice—it’s a must. Ignoring this requirement could lead to some serious health issues, so getting advice from a health professional is essential. Malnutrition, digestive problems, and even a higher risk of other autoimmune disorders are some of the risks if you don’t stick to a gluten-free diet.
Non-Coeliac Gluten Sensitivity
If you’re having coeliac disease symptoms but testing negative for it, that’s called non-coeliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). And again, it’s important to get a proper diagnosis and supporting advice from a health professional. Cutting out gluten from your diet might help, but you’ll want to rule out other causes for your symptoms first.
Wheat Allergy
If you have a wheat allergy, it’s a different ballgame. This means you’re allergic to proteins found in wheat, and eating it can lead to hives, trouble breathing, or digestive distress. In this case, avoiding wheat and anything with gluten is absolutely essential to stay safe.
Wheat Allergy
If you have a wheat allergy, it’s a different ballgame. This means you’re allergic to proteins found in wheat, and eating it can lead to hives, trouble breathing, or digestive distress. In this case, avoiding wheat and anything with gluten is absolutely essential to stay safe.
Personal Health Goals
For those of you without coeliac disease, NCGS, or a wheat allergy, your decision to try a specialised diet might be driven by your personal health goals. But you should do it mindfully. Specialised diets might not provide all the nutrients you need. If your goal is weight loss, for example, it’s essential to focus on balanced nutrition and portion control instead of just cutting out certain foods.
Skin Conditions and Dietary Choices
If you’ve been dealing with skin issues like eczema or psoriasis, your diet may be playing a role. Specialised diets, like elimination diets, can really help you identify which foods might be triggering those skin problems. And if you reduce carbs in your diet, it might even help calm down inflammation.
IBS and Dietary Management
If you’re one of many New Zealander’s dealing with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), making dietary changes could be a game-changer. You may want to try the FODMAP diet which focuses on reducing carbs that can trigger IBS symptoms like bloating and stomach pain. It’s always a good idea to talk to a health professional or dietitian if you have IBS, so they can help you find the best dietary options.
Consulting a Medical Professional
Before you jump into a specialised diet, it’s a great idea to talk to a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian. They can help you figure out if it aligns with your health needs, run the necessary tests, and guide you through any potential issues, like nutritional deficiencies.
Label Reading and Nutritional Knowledge
Transitioning to a specialised diet involves becoming a bit of a food label detective. Tricky ingredients can hide in unexpected places, like sauces, dressings, and even some medications. So, brushing up on your nutritional know-how is a must to ensure you’re getting all the essential nutrients your body needs.
Mindful Eating and Food Enjoyment
Embracing a specialised diet should be all about having a positive relationship with food. Instead of focusing on what you can’t eat, think about all the delicious things you can! Exploring new recipes, cooking methods, and a variety of ingredients can really open up your culinary world.
Conclusion
So, there’s a lot to take in, but finding out if a specialised diet is right for you requires some careful thought about your health conditions, goals, and lifestyle. If you’ve got coeliac disease, NCGS, or a wheat allergy, those dietary restrictions are non-negotiable. But for everyone else considering a specialised diet, it’s a good idea to seek professional guidance and prioritise whole, nutrient-packed foods. Remember, your nutritional needs are unique, and a balanced approach to eating is the key to long-term health and feeling your best. And, Allergywise is here to help you enjoy your specialised diet every step of the way!
