If you're interested in following a gluten-free diet, you'll need to eliminate everything in your diet that contains the grains wheat, barley and rye, according to Massachusetts General Hospital. This can be harder than it sounds, since food manufacturers include these grains, especially wheat, in many processed food items.
Medical Reasons
People whose physicians have diagnosed them with the digestive ailment celiac disease need to avoid gluten, because the protein contributes to intestinal damage, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. But some people, including celebrity Oprah Winfrey, say going gluten-free helps them with weight loss and other medical conditions, even if they haven't been diagnosed with celiac disease.
Hidden Gluten
It's relatively simple to avoid products that are obviously based on gluten-containing flours, such as breads, cereals, pastas and pastries, according to Massachusetts General Hospital. But following a gluten-free diet involves eliminating hidden gluten sources, too. These can include candy, processed meats, french fries and even self-basting turkeys.
Acceptable Grains
People who follow the guidelines for a gluten-free diet can enjoy many types of grains and grain products as long as they don't include any gluten, according to Massachusetts General Hospital. Possible grains to try include teff, sorghum, amaranth and buckwheat, which isn't related to wheat. You can also consume soy, corn and rice--in fact, you may want to consider purchasing a rice cooker if you like rice.
More Foods
Fresh fruits with no added ingredients such as syrup, plain fresh vegetables and unprocessed meats generally are considered gluten-free, according to Colorado State University. Plain beans also fit well into a gluten-free diet. You can have most dairy products unless you're also lactose intolerant, and sugar and oils also should be gluten free.
Considerations
Following the guidelines for a gluten-free diet can seem daunting, especially at first, according to Colorado State University. However, after a few months you'll likely feel comfortable with the diet and will have identified new foods, perhaps a few you've never tried before, to include in your diet and enjoy.
Member Comments