Be Grain Free. Why grains contribute to leaky gut and inflammation.

February 21st is National Grain Free Day. This is a pretty big deal in our family since I follow a ketogenic diet and my entire family eats a lower-carb, high-fat diet.

Why?

Because although grains are the world’s biggest source of food consumption, we as a society are sicker than ever.

I followed a low-fat vegetarian diet with occasional fish for 12 years. That meant my main source of food was carbohydrates. I’d buy whole wheat breads and make myself overnight oats or cook up some non-instant oatmeal. I’d buy all the dark rye or healthier version of breads. I thought I was doing the right thing and sure, my waist line was pretty slim but who would have thought that this diet was making me pre-diabetic. And I’m only in my 30’s.

As I’ve studied nutrition, I realized I had it all wrong.

Whole wheat bread usually contains very few grains. The main ingredient, wheat flour, is just white flour with a few whole grain flakes added. Whole wheat bread also usually has added sugar or high fructose corn syrup.

Oatmeal is touted to be one of the healthiest breakfast foods.

It’s not.