Going Gluten-Free? Why This Celebrity Nutrition Expert Wants You To Ditch Corn

That said, in my experience, gluten is just one of seven high-FI foods that may be affecting your well-being. Another one I often recommend nixing? Corn.

Here's the scoop: While corn doesn't contain any gluten, what it does contain is a type of protein called zein that triggers an abnormal immune response similar to gluten. (So similar, in fact, that you will often hear zein referred to as "corn gluten.") 

Why does inflammation matter? While there's the good kind (called acute inflammation) that immediately goes into action when you're hurt or injured, there's also the bad kind (called chronic inflammation) that's connected to a number of health concerns. And while a lot of things can contribute to chronic inflammation—poor sleep, everyday stress, not getting the right kind of exercise—the biggest offender is often diet, which is why cutting out irritants like gluten and corn can be so important.

In case you need further convincing, here are three more reasons I suggest going corn-free:

I generally advise against eating high-FI foods like gluten and corn because they may trigger inflammation—particularly for people with celiac disease, as well as anyone with a gluten sensitivity. This can lead to impacts on overall well-being. For one of my favorite ways to manage inflammation, check out my go-to smoothie recipe.