The War on Wheat - the fifth estate

The segment introduces a debate on the role of wheat in our diets, questioning its impact on health. Mark Kelley presents the issue as a contentious one, with some arguing that wheat is a source of numerous health problems, while others defend its place in a balanced diet. The program promises to explore the scientific validity of the anti-wheat movement and scrutinize the claims made by its proponents, such as Dr. William Davis, who authored the influential book 'Wheat Belly.'

This paragraph delves into the claims made by Dr. William Davis, who asserts that wheat, particularly modern wheat, is responsible for a wide range of health issues. Davis, a cardiologist turned anti-wheat advocate, argues that wheat has been altered to such an extent that it's akin to a genetically modified 'Frankenwheat.' He criticizes the food industry and government for promoting its consumption. The segment also discusses the impact of Davis's book on the public and the food industry, with significant drops in cereal sales and shifts towards gluten-free products.

The discussion shifts to an investigation of the scientific claims made by Dr. Davis, particularly the assertion that wheat is addictive and causes a variety of diseases. Joe Schwarcz, a chemist, challenges Davis's claims, stating that there is no solid evidence for wheat being addictive or that it directly causes diseases like cancer. Schwarcz also criticizes the use of outdated or misinterpreted studies to support these claims.

This section explores the evolution of wheat varieties and the question of whether modern wheat is fundamentally different from historical strains. Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan conduct a study comparing wheat from the 1930s to that from the 1990s. The findings suggest that despite changes in yield and appearance, the genetic profiles of wheat proteins like gluten and gliadins have not been significantly altered, contradicting the 'Frankenwheat' claims.

The narrative highlights the role of celebrity endorsements in popularizing the wheat-free diet. Celebrities like Anne Hathaway, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Miley Cyrus have publicly supported gluten-free lifestyles, contributing to the diet's popularity. However, health policy professor Tim Caulfield questions the influence of celebrity culture on scientific truth and discusses the trend of gluten-free eating as a form of self-expression and community identity.

The segment grapples with the public's trust in scientific research versus personal beliefs and anecdotes. It points out that despite a lack of endorsement from medical associations and scientists, many people continue to adopt wheat-free diets based on personal experiences and the testimonials of others. The debate is framed as a struggle between traditional nutritional advice and the rising tide of anti-wheat sentiment.

The final paragraph addresses the broader implications of the wheat debate for public trust in science. It contrasts the anecdotal evidence supporting the Wheat Belly diet with the lack of scientific consensus behind its claims. The program encourages viewers to engage with the debate, consider the available scientific studies, and ultimately trust their own instincts and bodies when making dietary choices.