Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. Following a gluten-free diet can be challenging as gluten is found in many processed and store bought foods. If you are following a gluten-free diet during your pregnancy, it is important to understand which foods are off limits and how you can make sure you are still getting all of the nutrients necessary for a healthy pregnancy.
Benefits
A gluten-free diet is the only treatment for celiac disease, a digestive disease that prevents the body from tolerating gluten. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, more than 2 million people in the United States have celiac disease, and it can be triggered for the first time during pregnancy.
Naturally Gluten Free Foods
Most meats, fish, fruits and vegetables are naturally gluten-free and safe to eat. Corn, legumes, nuts, potatoes, seeds and soy are also allowed on a gluten-free diet. You can find ways to substitute gluten-free foods into your diet, such as using potato, rice, quinoa, buckwheat or bean flour instead of wheat flour.
Foods to Avoid
When following a gluten-free diet, be sure to void anything with wheat, spelt, matzo meal and farina. Most grains, pastas, cereals and processed foods contain gluten, but check the labels to be sure. Many products specify that they contain gluten.
Gluten Free Varieties
If you are following a gluten-free diet, you can still eat some varieties of candy, cake, pie, cereal, cookies, croutons, crackers, gravy, sauce and salad dressings. Just look for special gluten-free varieties at your grocery store or health food store.
Considerations
According to MayoClinic.com, following a gluten-free diet may cause you to have low levels of some vitamins and nutrients. Because you and your unborn baby need a balance of vitamins, talk to your doctor to make sure you are getting enough iron, fiber, calcium and folic acid.
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