Going gluten-free is a trendy thing to do: Singer-songwriter Miley Cyrus is touting it. Snack giant Frito-Lay is introducing gluten-free products.

But experts at Kansas State University say going gluten-free is not necessary for everyone, and that in general, gluten-free doesn’t always mean healthier. Gluten-free products can contain as many calories as gluten options. And, a gluten-free diet can lack a sufficient amount of fiber if the gluten-free dieter doesn’t boost vegetable and fruit consumption.

However, for the 1 percent of the population with a digestive disorder called celiac disease, giving up gluten products takes away unpleasant symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea triggered by eating gluten, which is a mixture of proteins found in wheat, barley and rye.

Source: Kansas State University

— Anne Aurand, The Bulletin