Gluten sensitive enteropathy is a genetic condition that triggers an allergic reaction when gluten--the protein found in certain grains--comes in contact with the cells of the small intestine. This condition, also known as Celiac Sprue, may lead to digestive symptoms, difficulty maintaining weight and growth retardation in children.
Gluten-Free Grains
The main source of gluten in the diet is the protein portion of certain grains, including wheat, rye and barley. Some grains do not contain gluten and can be eaten freely. Buckwheat, corn, flax, potatoes, quinoa, tapioca and rice (including white, brown, Arborio and wild rice) do not contain gluten. Oats are tolerated by some individuals, but problematic for others. Gluten-free flour can be made into food that is safe for the celiac patient. Examples are potato bread and pastas made from rice, corn, potato or quinoa.
Gluten-Free Foods
Meat, fish and chicken do not contain gluten; however, some meat products might contain it. The presence of breading coating or crumb layers are a likely indication of gluten. Fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, oils and dairy products don't contain gluten. Ingredients added to these foods in processing or in combination with other foods (such as a packaged salad) should always be considered suspect until further investigation. In addition, hot dogs and lunch meats may have grains included in their recipes. Food labels should be read thoroughly before eating meat products that contain additional ingredients to rule out the presence of gluten.
Food manufacturers will often place a "gluten-free" statement on the package to alert gluten-sensitive individuals that it is safe. It is increasingly common to find vendors and manufacturers publicizing information about their gluten-free products on the Internet.
Special Products
Gluten-free products are increasing in the market. Gluten-free bread and pasta have been around for years, but other gluten-free substitutes for foods like baked goods were hard to find and known for their poor flavor. Today's gluten-free products include cookies, cakes and brownie mixes that are now comparable in taste to the regular varieties the rest of the population enjoys.
Other Sources of Gluten
Those with celiac sprue must research the contents of virtually any food product. Medicines, vitamins, communion wafers and even the glue on stamps and envelopes may contain gluten.
