A person with concomitant celiac disease and diabetes must follow a diet that is free of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye, while incorporating healthy foods for diabetes management. The University of Virginia Health System says that learning to combine a gluten-free diet with diabetes management can be a daunting task, and recommends a person have several visits with a registered dietitian to learn to combine the two diets into a meal plan.
Grains and Potatoes
A person with diabetes and celiac disease can eat grains that do not contain gluten, in the amount determined by her individualized meal plan. Grains such as rice, corn, flax and buckwheat are naturally gluten-free. Prepackaged grains, such as flavored rice, can contain seasonings that contain gluten; reading package labels is necessary to determine if gluten is present. Potatoes of any variety are also naturally gluten-free and can be included in a diabetic and celiac diet. Food products made with gluten-free grains can also be eaten as part of a special diet. Cereals, breads, pastas and snacks such as crackers or cookies are commercially available in gluten-free varieties and can be implemented as part of a diabetic meal plan. Learning to count carbohydrates from gluten-free grains is important to good blood sugar control, as the carbohydrates differ from those found in wheat-based grains, according to the University of Virginia Health System.
Fruit and Vegetables
The American Diabetes Association recommends someone with diabetes and celiac disease choose foods in their natural state to prevent gluten exposure. Fresh fruits and vegetables are naturally gluten-free and are a nutrient-rich part of a diabetic meal plan. Fruits and vegetables of any variety are a good choice. Canned fruits and vegetables; however, may contain thickeners, spices or seasonings that contain gluten.
Dairy
Dairy products contain both carbohydrates and protein; essential components of a diabetic diet. Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, ice cream, cottage cheese, cheese slices and cream cheese are also gluten-free. A diary product can contain gluten if a gluten-containing additive is present, such as crushed cookies or brownie pieces.
Meats
Fresh meats are naturally gluten-free and are a good source of dietary protein. A person can choose fresh, unprocessed beef, chicken, pork or poultry. Fresh fish such as salmon or cod are also gluten-free. Processed meats such as hot dogs, lunch meats and sausage can contain gluten additives. Meats or fish breaded with wheat-based coatings also contain gluten and should be avoided.
