Health + Happiness with Mayo Clinic Season 1 Episode 9 Should I Go Gluten-Free?

Should I Go Gluten-Free? is the ninth episode of season 1 of the show Health + Happiness with Mayo Clinic. The episode features the host, Dr. LaPook, and his guests discussing the current trend of going gluten-free and whether it is necessary for everyone or just those with specific health conditions.

The episode begins with Dr. LaPook introducing the topic and explaining what gluten is and what products contain gluten. He then brings in Dr. Joseph Murray, a gastroenterologist and expert on celiac disease, to discuss the health implications of going gluten-free.

Dr. Murray explains that celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where eating gluten causes damage to the small intestine. However, he notes that only about 1% of the population has celiac disease, and for those individuals, going gluten-free is crucial for their health. He cautions against people self-diagnosing with celiac disease and going gluten-free without consulting a doctor.

The show then features interviews with people who have chosen to go gluten-free for various reasons, including weight loss, improved energy levels, and better digestion. Dr. LaPook asks them about their experiences and their advice for others considering going gluten-free.

Next, Dr. LaPook introduces Dr. Imad Absah, a gastroenterologist who discusses gluten sensitivity, a condition where individuals experience symptoms similar to celiac disease without actually having the disease. He explains that the prevalence of gluten sensitivity is not well understood, but estimates range from 0.5% to 13% of the population.

Dr. Absah also notes that some people who believe they have gluten sensitivity may actually have other underlying conditions that cause their symptoms, such as irritable bowel syndrome or lactose intolerance. He emphasizes the importance of seeking medical advice before starting a gluten-free diet.

The show then features a cooking segment with Chef Marshall, who demonstrates how to make gluten-free pizza crust using cauliflower. He explains that there are many gluten-free alternatives available for most products that traditionally contain gluten.

Lastly, Dr. LaPook summarizes the main points of the episode and emphasizes the importance of addressing any health concerns with a doctor before making significant changes to one's diet.

Overall, Should I Go Gluten-Free? provides a balanced and informative discussion of the current trend of going gluten-free. The show features expert medical advice, personal experiences, and cooking tips to help viewers make informed decisions about their diet.