Gluten-free foods are a must for those with celiac disease and can be dangerous if consumed, as the immune system responds by damaging or destroying villi (the small, fingerlike protrusions that line the small intestine), according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC). When the villi are affected this way, nutrients in foods cannot be properly absorbed, causing the individual to become malnourished and ill. Maintaining a gluten-free diet is essential to health for celiac sufferers.
Wheat and Flour
While wheat is considered a healthy part of breads, cereal, pasta and other foods, it is not a gluten-free food and would therefore be prohibited in gluten-free diets. Examples of wheat include wheat bran, hydrolyzed wheat protein, wheat germ, wheat starch, barley, rye, enriched flour and other types of flour including durum flour, enriched flour and plain and self-rising flour. And because wheat is a major ingredient in many foods, it is essential to read labels and look for wheat content.
Processed Foods
Processed foods are often quick-fixes, as they are typically ready to eat or easy to assemble. These foods include cereals, soups, packaged vegetables in sauces, potato chips, cold cuts, crackers, rice mixes and anything that has been altered and contains wheat, barley or rye. This may eliminate many foods but will allow for whole, natural foods to be consumed instead. The healthiest foods are unprocessed and have not been refrigerated, frozen, dehydrated or altered any way. Generally, those with celiac disease should always avoid processed foods, but those without the condition also benefit from excluding them from their diet. In addition, even foods that are packaged for health and make health claims are said to not be food at all, according to a 2007 article titled "Unhappy Meals" in "The New York Times Magazine" (see link in References). These foods are considered processed.
Oats
Oats may not be harmful for most those with celiac disease, but oat products are frequently made with wheat, and should therefore be avoided, according to the Mayo Clinic. Additionally, controversies exist over the question of whether those on gluten-free diets should consume pure oat products.
Considerations
For those who suspect they have celiac disease, starting a gluten-free diet is not recommended until a doctor has diagnosed the condition, according to the Mayo Clinic. It may be more difficult to identify the condition once a gluten-free diet has been established.
