The Evolution of Wheat and Its Impact on Health
The wheat we consume today is vastly different from what our grandparents knew, making it significantly more reactive for our immune systems. This shift raises concerns about its effects on health, particularly regarding conditions like celiac disease and gluten sensitivity.
Research indicates that the incidence of celiac disease has notably increased, not only due to improved diagnosis but also due to changes in wheat itself. Some studies estimate that non-celiac gluten sensitivity affects about 1–5% of the general population. However, in autoimmune patients at our clinics, this figure is closer to 100%.
What Makes Modern Wheat More Problematic?
- Hybridization: Unlike genetically modified organisms (GMOs), hybridization involves crossbreeding different wheat strains to enhance pest resistance. Unfortunately, this process also boosts the wheat’s immune-reactivity.
- Deamidation: Chemicals used in deamidation make gluten more water-soluble, allowing it to blend seamlessly with other ingredients. For some, this can trigger severe immune responses.
- Haptenation: Chemicals like glyphosate can alter the protein structure of wheat, increasing its likelihood of causing immune reactions.
- Transglutaminase: Many individuals sensitive to gluten also develop an autoimmunity against transglutaminase, an enzyme critical for breaking down wheat protein. This enzyme is often utilized in processing meats, such as in chicken nuggets, which can lead to cross-reactivity.
- Aflatoxins: Mold can produce aflatoxins, toxins that often develop during grain storage. Some people can become sensitive to these toxins.
- Bleaching: Most flour used in food production undergoes bleaching through various chemicals, potentially increasing its immune-reactive properties.
- Sugar: High sugar content in many wheat products contributes to inflammation, further damaging the gut and making gluten more reactive.
Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet and lifestyle can be one of the most beneficial choices for your health. For more guidance, check out my free Inflammatory Reset guide linked in the bio.
Individuals may react differently to wheat components. For those whose reactions stem from gluten itself, strictly avoiding gluten is crucial. Conversely, if glyphosate is the issue, exploring other organic options might be advantageous. Understanding your specific situation is essential.
Learn More
To discover more about our services and schedule a complimentary consultation, please visit redriverhealthandwellness.com. We collaborate with your treating physician to ensure the best outcomes. Remember, never discontinue any medication or hormone replacement therapy without consulting your physician first.
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About Josh Redd
Josh Redd, MS, DABFM, DAAIM, is a chiropractic physician and the author of the Amazon bestseller “The Truth About Low Thyroid.” He operates seven functional medicine clinics across the western United States and treats patients nationwide and globally who face challenging autoimmune, endocrine, and neurological disorders.
He has studied immunology, virology, and epidemiology at Johns Hopkins, where he is pursuing a Master’s in Public Health (MaPHB). Additionally, he educates thousands of healthcare practitioners on topics concerning functional medicine, immunology, thyroid health, neurology, lab testing, and more.
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