Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. Gluten is found in foods made with wheat flour, processed foods and some personal care products and medications. For children with celiac disease, gluten causes the immune system to attack the lower intestine. An article by Mary Sharrett and Pam Cureton in the February 2007 edition of "Practical Gastroenterology" reported that one in every 80 children may suffer from celiac disease. The only cure for celiac disease is a gluten-free diet. Many foods are naturally gluten-free and readily available for creating a kid-friendly menu.
Breads and Cereals
Gluten-free breads are available for kids who crave a sandwich or toast; these are often found in a grocer's freezer section. Gluten-free bagels, rolls, pizza crust, English muffins and whole-grain or white breads are made from white and brown rice, or teff, an African grain. White rice and teff tortillas are also available for serving tacos, enchiladas or sandwich wraps.
Cereals made from rice or corn offer an alternative to wheat-based breakfast products. Some cereal manufacturers mark "gluten-free" on the front of the cereal box, or have a gluten-free label near the product's nutritional information. Corn or rice cereals not marked 'gluten-free' may contain malt, a product made from gluten-containing barely, for flavoring.
Family Doctor.org advises that these products are often found in the gluten-free section in grocery or health food stores.
Dairy
The Children's Digestive Health and Nutrition Foundation states that most dairy products are naturally gluten-free and are a good choice for calcium-packed nutrition. Children on a gluten-free diet may enjoy yogurt, cheese sticks, cheese slices, ice cream and pudding. Dairy products may contain gluten if additives containing wheat or gluten have been added, such as ice cream with crushed cookies.
Protein
Fresh meats such as chicken, fish, beef and pork are naturally gluten-free. Many commercial foods targeted to children contain gluten, such as chicken nuggets or fish sticks. Preparing fresh meats offer kids an alternative, such as diced fresh chicken coated with crushed, gluten-free corn flakes and baked. Some processed lunch meats contain gluten; reading labels will help ensure a gluten-free option. Peanut butter is a protein-packed, kid-friendly choice for children who do not have a peanut allergy.
Vegetables and Fruit
Fruit and vegetables are normally gluten-free. Fresh fruits or vegetables can be served raw, cooked or added to a dish. Kid-friendly fruits and vegetables, such as apples, bananas, oranges, celery or carrots are a nutritious addition to a gluten-free lunch or snack. Commercially prepared items containing fruit, such as snack bars, and canned fruits and vegetables may contain gluten. Reading labels on processed fruits and vegetables is important to ensure the product is gluten-free.
