This Video Will Finally Explain to You WTF Gluten Is

Remember last week, how we all laughed at those dumb people who Jimmy Kimmel embarrassed, who avoid gluten — even though none of them had a clue what gluten even is? Admit it: Whether or not you’re following the fad diet, you probably couldn’t define gluten, either. 

To clear up some of this confusion, the guys at AsapSCIENCE posted a video today that clearly explains the mysterious substance: Gluten is a combination of two proteins, which are called gliadin and glutenin, which are found primarily in wheat and grains like barley and rye; it’s the stuff that makes dough stretchy and sticky.

Lately, the faddishness of “going gluten-free” has made it hard not to be at least a little wary of gluten. Because gluten-free diets have become something of a “social contagion,” as famous food writer Michael Pollan said in an interview with the Huffington Post this week: “There are a lot of people who hear from their friends that, ‘I got off gluten and I sleep better and the sex is better and I’m happier,’ and then they try it and they feel better too; it’s the power of suggestion,” Pollan said. Fight the power, and if you haven’t actually been diagnosed with a gluten sensitivity (which, a new study suggests, might not even be a thing), it may be time to invite bread back into your life. (Remember bread?)

This Video Will Finally Explain WTF Gluten Is