Is Grain-Free the Next Gluten-Free?

Grain-free food has become a popular conversation topic among health-conscious eaters. While the gluten-free lifestyle has changed countless lives for the better, grain-free living is still lesser known, though much appreciated by those who have experienced the benefits.

Although grain-free snacks are naturally gluten-free, not all gluten-free food is grain-free. For example, corn and rice are grains that don’t contain any gluten. If you’re considering taking your gluten-free eating plan to the next level, or just looking to boost your health overall, doing away with grains could be the next logical step. Here’s why.

1. Reduces Inflammation

Research into the benefits of grain-free food is still ongoing, but studies suggest that refined grains cause inflammation in the body. It’s a similar inflammatory response that happens when someone with a gluten intolerance eats gluten. 

The reason is that carb-binding proteins called lectins bind to immune cell receptors called lymphocytes, which causes an inflammatory response. Processed grains break down in the body quickly, and these carbs turn into sugar, which is well-known for causing inflammation.

2. Curbs Overeating

While some whole grains offer some health benefits, processed grains have very little nutritional value. This means that to get the nutrition you need, you will need to supplement your diet with other foods. Eating nutritious grain-free food allows you to focus solely on the good stuff — with no filler!

Additionally, grains (and other foods high on the glycemic index) are notoriously difficult to stop munching. Have you ever noticed how you can eat a massive plate of pasta and then go back for seconds, or even thirds? It’s easy to indulge in an unhealthy amount of grains without even realizing it, and that’s a big reason grain-free living helps people shed excess weight.

3. Improves Mental Health

Research suggests that a grain-free lifestyle may improve several mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, ADD and epilepsy. Eating grain-free food isn’t a cure-all, but it can be a helpful and safe addition to your mental wellness plan. Physical and mental health also go hand-in-hand, so it’s not surprising that eating better would make you feel better.

Enjoy Within/Without Grain-Free Granola

Many of our loyal customers enjoy the grain-free lifestyle. Our wholesome granola is grain-free and also fits many other eating plans including gluten-free, paleo and keto lifestyles. 

If you’re looking for a delicious snack and meal option, we encourage you to give our uniquely chewy, soft-baked granola a try. It’s made from clean, simple ingredients and none of the processed ingredients that cloud your mind.

If you have any questions about grain-free food, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can also find delicious grain-free snacks and recipes on our health blog, so go have a look around! Grain-free eating can be incredibly tasty and satisfying, so why not give it a shot? Try Within/Without granola and experience the difference!