A lifelong gluten-free diet is used to treat celiac disease, a digestive disorder characterized by an intolerance of gluten, which is a protein found in many grains. A gluten-free diet alleviates symptoms of celiac disease and heals intestinal damage caused by the intolerance. According to the Children's Digestive Health and Nutrition Foundation (CDNHF), those on a gluten-free diet should avoid wheat and other grains and products including barley, farina, farro, graham flour, kamut, matzo, orzo, panko, rye, seitan, spelt, triticale and udon.
Grains
Gluten-free grains, according to the CDNHF, are amaranth, arrowroot, buckwheat, corn, flax, nut and seed flours, millet, potato starch, potato flour, quinoa, rice, rice bran, sago, sorghum, soy, tapioca and teff. While oats do not harm most people with celiac disease, they can be contaminated with wheat during processing; the CDNHF recommends consulting a physician or dietitian before adding oats to a gluten-free diet.
Fruits and Vegetables
All fresh fruits and vegetables are gluten-free as are plain frozen and dried varieties. The Celiac Sprue Association (CSA) warns that canned fruits and vegetables can contain emulsifiers, preservatives, thickening agents and stabilizers with gluten.
Meat, Poultry and Fish
Fresh meat, poultry, fish, seafood and eggs are gluten-free. The Mayo Clinic recommends individuals on a gluten-free diet avoid deli meats, sausages and hot dogs and self-basting poultry unless labeled "gluten-free." Meat, poultry and fish that have been breaded, coated or marinated also should be avoided.
Dairy
According to the CDNHF, unflavored milk, cream, aged cheese, butter, margarine, cream cheese, cottage cheese, ice cream, sherbet, sour cream and most yogurts are gluten-free. The CSA recommends avoiding cheeses that contain vegetable gum, food starch and preservatives if they are not labeled "gluten-free."
Fat, Sugar and Condiments
Liquid oils, butter, margarine, lard, shortening, cream, mayonnaise, peanut butter, nuts, coconut and hydrogenated oils do not contain gluten. Gluten-free sweeteners include sugar, honey, maple syrup, corn syrup and molasses. Sugary foods that are gluten-free include jellies and jams, plain hard candy, chocolate and marshmallows. Vinegar, spices, herbs, relish, pickles, olives, ketchup, mustard and most salad dressings are gluten-free.
Beverages
Water, coffee, tea, 100 percent fruit juice and soft drinks do not contain gluten, according to the CDNHF. Nut and rice drinks, wine, brandy, potato vodka, rum, tequila and some root beers are gluten-free. Beer is not allowed in a gluten-free diet unless it is labeled "gluten-free."
