The number of Americans choosing the gluten free diet has been on a steady rise for over a decade, and the trend is not slowing down. The gluten free diet is embraced out of necessity by individuals diagnosed with celiac disease (an autoimmune disorder that causes damage to the intestines when gluten is eaten), but there are also many people who are not officially diagnosed with celiac disease, yet they notice improved health and comfort when gluten is removed from their diet.

Whatever the reason may be for someone to “go gluten free”, it is important to recognize some of the potential risks that go along with this restricted diet. We’ll take a look at how Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.) can come alongside the gluten free diet to ensure the body is getting everything it needs!

What is Gluten?

Gluten is a protein found in certain grains, and it acts as a bonding agent to hold things together, kind of like glue. It is found in wheat, barley and rye, and any product derived from these grains (you’d be surprised at how many processed foods contain gluten!).

Common Deficiencies in the Gluten Free Lifestyle

Over the last few years, studies have shown that individuals on a gluten free diet are quite likely to become deficient of several important nutrients. This is partly because of the highly-processed gluten free alternatives, which are often low-fiber and nutritionally void.

Some of the vitamins and minerals commonly found lacking in gluten free diets include:

• Folate: a B vitamin necessary for DNA rejuvenation and cell division.
• Iron: responsible for the production of oxygen-carrying blood cells.
• Magnesium: helps with protein synthesis, muscle function, and hundreds of other biochemical reactions in the body.
• Zinc: an immunity booster that also involved with proper growth and development.

Black Gram Can Get You Out of a Jam

These deficiencies are far from necessary, and generally occur from poor eating habits due to the inconvenience of the dietary restrictions. The good news is that our favorite lentil Black Gram is an amazing source of these important nutrients. If you’re looking for a delicious way to bring a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals back into your life, look no further; Black Gram has you covered!

But seriously, check out the nutritional density of this ancient legume, specifically in the four nutrients mentioned above:

• Folate: Just a single 100 g serving of Black Gram supplies you with over half of the recommended daily intake; and this is natural folate, much easier for the body to absorb than the synthetic version folic acid, often found in supplements.
• Iron: Even though spinach often gets the spotlight for its high iron content, Black Gram has it totally trumped with a whopping 7.57 mg per serving; …that’s 95% of the RDV! 
• Magnesium: 267 mg of magnesium are packed into a single serving of Black Gram; that’s 67% of the RDV. 
• Zinc: one serving of Black Gram provides 30% of your zinc.

Gluten Free Just Got Healthier!

Ready to bring this addition onto your gluten free table? Black Gram has been valued for thousands of years in India as a medicinal food, because there are so many health benefits to be had from it. Try a few new recipes to get you started on a new journey of wellness, and be sure to contact us if you have any other questions.

There’s no reason not to enjoy life even more. Happy eating!

Disclaimer: Blackgram.com does not offer personal health or medical advice. Neither black gram nor any of the statements herein have been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided on blackgram.com is general in nature and informational only. Nothing on this site is intended as advice and should not be considered a substitute in any way for professional medical advice to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. You should consult your healthcare provider before starting any nutrition, diet, exercise, fitness, medical, or wellness program.