Are faddy diets harmful?

Wheat-free diet

Why do it?

Some level of wheat intolerance may affect around ten per cent of the population, according to Professor Jonathan Brostoff, co-author of 'The Allergy Bible' (Quadrille, £9.99). But only one per cent of people have coeliac disease - an intolerance to the gluten in wheat, rye or barley.

What can go wrong?

Wholegrain foods, such as wholemeal bread and wholemeal pasta, are among the best sources of fibre - so if you cut them out, you could find yourself feeling sluggish and constipated. Wheat is also a good source of carbs, antioxidants and energy-releasing B vitamins, so it could be harmful to cut them out without a good reason.

Keep safe

You could try cutting out wheat and gluten for a week or two. If you feel markedly better, it's something worth exploring with the help of a dietitian. If your GP won't refer you, visit www.dietitiansunlimited.co.uk for a list of private professionals. If you go it alone, replace wheat with other nutritious grains such as rice, corn, quinoa, millet and buckwheat.

Click here for our guide to healthy wheat-free alternatives