How Gluten-Free Choices Can Gently Rebalance Your Plate & Body
Amazing plant-based gluten-free recipes inside!
This week, let’s talk gluten.
We often associate a gluten-free diet with celiac disease—and it’s true, for those with celiac, removing gluten is essential. But here’s what many people don’t realize: eliminating or reducing gluten can offer real benefits even if you don’t have a formal diagnosis. In fact, more and more people are discovering that gluten-free living can lead to improved digestion, better energy, and fewer brain fog days. And they’re not imagining it.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. It helps give dough its stretch and bread its fluff—but for many people, it can also trigger inflammation, digestive upset, and even mood swings. You don’t have to have celiac disease to feel those effects. There’s a growing awareness of something called non-celiac gluten sensitivity—a condition where gluten causes discomfort, without triggering the autoimmune response seen in celiac.
And here’s something especially relevant for those of us following a plant-based lifestyle: Many people who transition to a vegan diet default to meals that are heavy in gluten such as pastas, seitan, bread, wraps, and meat substitutes. While that doesn’t have to be a bad thing, consciously making an effort to reduce gluten intake can encourage a broader, more nutrient-dense plate. It’s a gentle nudge toward variety— Shifting to add more whole foods can boost your overall energy, digestion, and well-being.
5 Potential Benefits of Going Gluten-Free:
Improved Digestion
Many people notice reduced bloating, gas, or irregularity after ditching gluten. That’s because gluten can irritate the gut lining, even in those without celiac disease.
Clearer Skin
Chronic skin issues like eczema and acne have been linked to gluten sensitivity in some people. When they remove it, inflammation calms—and so does the skin.
More Energy, Less Brain Fog
A gluten-heavy diet can leave some people feeling sluggish or mentally cloudy. Gluten-free eating has helped many feel sharper and more energized.
Reduced Joint Pain
Some notice fewer aches and pains on a gluten-free diet—likely thanks to reduced systemic inflammation.
Better Mood
Emerging research connects gluten with anxiety, depression, and mood swings in sensitive individuals. Cutting back may help stabilize mood and mental clarity.
Don’t these benefits sound worth exploring? Here are a few of my favorite plant-based, gluten-free recipes to help you get started on your journey.
Brazilian Black Bean Soup with Baked Plantains (from The 30-Minute Vegan: Soup's On!)
Chocolate Lavender Truffles (from Taste of Europe: 150 Plant-Based Makeovers of Classics from France, Italy, Spain . . . and Beyond)
THE POWER OF EATING PURE AND CLOSE TO THE GROUND
Staying pure by eating close to the ground is one of the most effective
ways to eliminate toxic chemicals and harmful substances from our lives.
By removing meat, wheat, dairy, and eggs from your diet as a first step,
you reduce your exposure to pesticides, hormones, antibiotics, and
allergens commonly found in animal products and processed foods.
Choosing organic, whole, plant-based foods ensures you’re nourishing
your body with clean, nutrient-rich ingredients that support natural
detoxification and overall well-being. This approach helps you maintain
a positive, healthy, and happy state—your body’s natural baseline.
By embracing purity in your diet, you not only protect yourself but also
contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable world for all. And a more
connected spiritually aligned you!
“The closer we get to nature, the healthier we become.” — Dr. T. Colin Campbell
A heartfelt thanks to our paid subscribers for their contributions to our content!
💚 Chef Mark Reinfeld and the Vegan Fusion Team
Founding Chef, Vegan Fusion
www.veganfusion.com