Risky truth behind the gluten-free diet

We all have that one friend who refuses to go near bread. He or she strives to adhere to a gluten-free lifestyle, a diet trend that seems to be growing.

Your friend might say he or she is allergic or has an intolerance to gluten. However, in reality, so few people have a gluten allergy (or celiac disease).

Even though people don't need to be following a gluten-free diet, some may still think their diet is working. They may say they feel much healthier after omitting breads and other foods -- but doctors warn that could all be psychological.

That's because often times, when someone decides to go gluten free, he or she is making lifestyle changes -- so it's not just them staying away from pasta, it could be hundreds of other factors as well.

So, what are doctors advising? Don't diagnose yourself! You could be doing more harm than good, as you could be dieting incorrectly.

Scroll through to learn more dieting tips:

More in lifestyle
Why some people have a small hole in front of their upper ears
New blood test may predict if you'll be alive in 5 years
Believe it or not, sugar could help you combat signs of aging