Registered dietitian Julie Mellen spoke with NewsChannel 9 about the gluten-free dietary trend among skinny celebrities. Is omitting or limiting gluten healthy? Is it a safe way to lose weight?

Mellen told the news crew that processed gluten-free foods often contain more fat than their gluten-containing counterparts, so they are not wise choices if you are trying to lose weight. Fruits and vegetables, however, are naturally low in fat and naturally gluten-free.

People with celiac disease have an intolerance to gluten -- a protein found in wheat, rye and barley -- so they try to eat gluten-free diets. In recent years, food makers have provided many new gluten-free options. Mellen also explained how gluten affects the immune system and the intestines.

Watch the NewsChannel 9 segment.