About 1 percent of Americans are reported to have celiac disease, also known as gluten intolerance. You can find a variety of pastas that have been developed especially for those who have an intolerance to gluten found in wheat, rye, barley, oats and spelt. People with this condition are not able to absorb nutrients properly and may suffer from digestive discomfort because gluten damages the lining of the intestines.
Raw Zucchini Pasta
The American Dietetic Association states that the only way to minimize the ill effects of celiac disease is to eat a gluten-free diet and maximize your nutrient intake. Eating raw pasta helps you achieve both objectives, because raw zucchini pasta does not contain any gluten, yet it does contain nutrients like vitamins A and C, manganese, magnesium and live enzymes. You can make a raw zucchini pasta by thinly slicing zucchini using a mandoline or potato peeler. Add hot tomato sauce to warm the zucchini.
Quinoa Pasta
At health food stores you can find pasta that uses quinoa flour to make different types of gluten-free pastas. Quinoa pasta is similar in texture and flavor to traditional wheat pasta and is higher in protein and fiber. Quinoa offers all the necessary amino acids your body needs. NASA has found quinoa to be one of the preferred grains for a complete protein.
Corn Pasta
Organic corn pasta is one of the newer gluten-free pastas on the market. You can find this at certain health food stores. It is sometimes mixed with other gluten-free ingredients like rice. Corn offers a moderate amount of fiber. You can find it preseasoned if you like meals that taste like macaroni and cheese, beef lasagna and chicken Alfredo. Unlike traditional pasta, corn pasta does not get mushy or gel-like if overcooked.
Rice Pasta
One of the most common ingredients used for gluten-free pasta is rice. Rice can be used to make a wide variety of pastas, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, elbow pasta, ravioli and lasagna. Rice pastas either use white rice, brown rice or a combination of both. Brown rice pasta offers a higher amount of fiber than white rice pasta. Fiber is a vital nutrient for optimal digestion. Dietary fiber helps stimulate digestion and cleans out your intestines.
