Safe Foods To Eat On Celiac Diet

People with celiac disease have difficulty absorbing nutrients from food containing gluten, rye and barley because of small intestine problems. Since these ingredients can be found in many foods such as cereal, cake, cookies and pasta, knowing what is safe to consume can be very difficult. Fortunately, with careful label reading there are many foods people with the disease can eat so they do not have to feel so diet-restricted.

Meat and Seafood

Generally, you can eat un-breaded, un-battered or un-marinated meat, seafood or poultry if you have celiac disease. As far as adding flavor to meat, pure spices or spice blends are safe to consume since they do not contain wheat. Be careful with certain seasonings, however. Some contain protein combined with certain wheat flours, according to the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center. Read the labels on all seasonings to be sure if they are safe to consume.

Grains and Starches

Corn, cornmeal, tapioca and gluten-free flours made of rice, soy, or potato are safe for people with celiac disease, according to the Mayoclinic.com. Buckwheat and quinoa are also allowed, but be sure to check the food label of products containing them as they may be contaminated during processing.

Dairy and Soy Products

Unflavored milk, most yogurts, cheese and cottage cheese naturally do not contain gluten and are safe to eat, according to Medicine.net. Butter, margarine and sour cream are also safe. As far as soy milk, certain brands may contain wheat gluten, rye, oat, barley or malt ingredients, so be sure to read the label before drinking it. Also, be sure that the soy product was not made in a facility that does contain the unsafe ingredients as contamination may occur.

Snacks

There are many types of snacks people with celiac disease can enjoy. Fresh, frozen or canned fruits and vegetables are among these healthy snacks. Chips, nachos and tamales made from corn can also be safely eaten, but should be consumed in moderation as they tend to be high in calories and fat. Snacks made of rice, corn or gluten-free flours including popcorn, crackers or pretzels are also safe, according to the MayoClinic.com.

Drinks

People with celiac disease can enjoy many types of beverages including tea, coffee, all-natural juice and many types of carbonated drinks, according to the Children's Hospital Boston. As far as adult beverages, wine is safe to be consumed since it is made from natural fruit. Beer, ales or lagers however, are made from grains and people with celiac disease should avoid them.