A gluten-free diet is the only way to treat symptoms of the autoimmune condition called celiac disease. Gluten is the protein found in wheat, barley and rye. Any foods containing the tiniest bit of these ingredients must be avoided by celiac patients. This includes traditional bread, pasta, many cereals, canned foods, bottled sauces and frozen dinners. Choosing organic products on a gluten-free diet puts additional restrictions on your diet.
Significance
The symptoms of celiac disease vary, but they include digestive distress, nutritional deficiencies, skin rashes and weight loss. One in every 133 Americans suffers from celiac disease, notes the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness. The prevalence of the condition has resulted in a boost in the availability of gluten-free products. Many of these products are not organic, however. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, plain meats and plain grains, excluding wheat, barley and rye, are naturally-gluten free.
Organic Foods
A food is organic if it is produced and processed according to organic standards put forth by the USDA. A food may be labeled "100 percent organic" if it is completely organic, such as fruits, vegetables and eggs. A product labeled "organic" contains products that are 95 percent or more organic; this usually applies to breakfast cereals, pastas or breads. "Made with organic ingredients" on the label indicates that at least 70 percent of ingredients in the product are organic. You may choose organic foods to reduce your exposure to chemical fertilizers and pesticides, to support a "green" movement or because you feel organic foods taste better and offer more nutrition.
Considerations
Both natural and processed gluten-free and organic foods can be more expensive than conventional products. If cost is a concern, you can reduce your exposure to pesticides by about 80 percent if you always choose organic for the following fruits and vegetables: celery, peaches, strawberries, apples, blueberries, nectarines, bell peppers, spinach, cherries, kale and other leafy greens, potatoes and imported grapes.
Sample Plan
A gluten-free, organic meal plan might begin with a bowl of cooked organic quinoa topped with organic raisins, organic chopped almonds and organic nonfat milk. At lunch, top organic brown rice with chopped, roasted organic chicken breast, organic salsa, organic black beans and organic sour cream. Have an organic apple with organic yogurt for dessert. A gluten-free dinner might include a baked organic sweet potato with broiled, organic sirloin steak and organic green beans. For snacks, enjoy organic walnuts, organic gluten-free cereals -- such as those based on corn or amaranth -- kefir, fresh fruit and organic gluten-free energy bars.
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