Gluten is the generic term for a group of plant proteins found in wheat, barley and rye. When individuals with celiac disease, or CD, ingest these proteins, their immune systems attack the foreign body in a series of events that damages the villi, or small finger-like projections inside the small intestine. Over time, the damaged villi lose their ability to absorb nutrients from the food passing through the gut, leading to malnutrition. While many commercial cakes, pies and cookies contain gluten, people with CD can choose from gluten-free alternatives.
Fruits
All fresh, unprocessed fruits are gluten-free, states the Celiac Sprue Association. People with gluten sensitivity can also eat frozen, canned or dried fruits as long as they don't use gluten as a thickener, preservative or additive.
Dairy Products
Most dairy products are gluten-free, including unflavored milk and yogurt, according to the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness. Celiac Sprue Association advises that yogurt, ice cream and sherbet are typically gluten-free, but cautions people with CD to read labels carefully to identify any added gluten. When serving cheese for dessert, people with gluten sensitivity should stick to aged hard cheeses such as Edam, cheddar and Parmesan.
Baked Goods
Unless they're labeled gluten-free, commercial cakes, pies, cookies and candies may trigger an autoimmune response in gluten-sensitive individuals, says MayoClinic.com. The National Foundation for Celiac Awareness hosts a website with an extensive listing of gluten-free brands, vendors and online markets for people with celiac disease.
Prepared Treats
While gelatins, junkets, custards and puddings are typically gluten-free, Celiac Sprue Association recommends reading labels carefully to identify added gluten. Watch out for gluten-based ingredients such as barley extract, cereal extract, malt extract, malt flavoring, malt syrup, rice syrup and miso, states the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center.
Toppings
When adding toppings to gluten-free desserts, avoid gluten-laden options such as granola. Both tree nuts and peanuts are gluten-free, says the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center.
Beverages
Dessert beverages such as coffee, tea, chocolate made with cocoa and carbonated drinks are typically gluten-free, says Celiac Sprue Association. Many beers are made from forbidden grains, but distilled alcohols such as rum, gin, whiskey and vodka are gluten-free. Wine is a gluten-free option for a dessert beverage, says National Foundation for Celiac Awareness.
