A wheat and dairy free diet is promoted for optimal health or to manage allergies or intolerance. People are increasingly looking to some foods as being a source of illness, for anything from autoimmune disorders to Alzheimer's. Certain foods may have toxins and by-products that can be damaging to overall health. Following a wheat and dairy free diet may promote healing and prevent harmful reactions to certain food components.
Effects
In addition to supporting optimal health, some people avoid wheat and dairy due to allergies or intolerance. A person may have an allergy to the protein component of wheat or to casein, which is a protein found in milk products. Consuming wheat or dairy may cause a potentially harmful allergic response. Intolerance to wheat or dairy may be less severe than allergies and cause instances of bloating or diarrhea.
Autism
Following a wheat-free and dairy-free diet has been shown to affect the behavior of some children with autism. In a 2007 study by the University of Western Ontario, Dr. Derrick MacFabe stated that parents of study participants described considerable improvements in behavior when wheat and dairy products were eliminated. The study suggested that propionic acid, which is produced by bacteria in the intestine and is also found in some bread and dairy items, causes an increase in repetitive behaviors and hyperactivity.
Substitutions
Those on a wheat and dairy free diet can still enjoy many foods while making some substitutions. Many recipes call for wheat flour, which may be substituted with rice, potato or almond flour to achieve similar results. Instead of using flour as a thickening agent, try cornstarch or cream of tartar. For dairy substitutions, rice milk may replace cow's milk, and margarine can be used instead of butter in some situations.
Acceptable
Many foods and beverages may be enjoyed on a wheat and dairy free diet without any necessary substitutions. Fruits such as apples, bananas and berries can all be eaten raw; as well as many vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and carrots. Beverages, such as colas and soft drinks, herbal tea, rice or coconut milk are also acceptable. Grains, including oatmeal or rice cereal; starches, such as potatoes, beans and peas; and corn products, including popcorn, cornmeal and grits are some examples of foods available.
Avoid
Unfortunately, a person on a wheat and dairy free diet must abstain from eating many types of foods. Foods that may contain wheat include breads; cakes and cookies; breakfast cereals, both cold and hot; crackers and pastas; and food additives, such as modified food starch or hydrolyzed vegetable protein. Dairy products to avoid include milk, including that from cows, goats or sheep, buttermilk, half-and-half, sweetened condensed or evaporated; butter; ice cream; yogurt; and additives or hidden ingredients such as whey, ghee, rennet or casein.
Member Comments