A gluten-free diet is required for someone with celiac disease, but is becoming more widespread as a diet that excludes certain grains such as wheat, barley and rye. Gluten is a protein found naturally in these grain products and causes inflammation in the small intestine in those suffering from celiac disease. Following a gluten-free diet, however, may result in eating fewer vitamin-enriched products that can eventually lead to nutritional deficiencies, according to the Mayo Clinic. As a result, you should consult your doctor or registered dietitian to discuss any specific gluten-free diet supplements.
Types
The types of supplements to complement your gluten-free diet are determined based on your individual nutritional requirements. For example, if you also follow a dairy-free diet or suffer from osteopenic bone disease, you may need to take a calcium and vitamin D supplement to replace the nutrients from milk, according to the journal "Practical Gastroenterology." Also, grain products such as bread and pasta are enriched with fiber, B vitamins and iron. Taking a multivitamin and fiber supplement can replace the nutrients to support healthy body functions.
Ingredients
Always read the ingredient and nutrition facts label thoroughly before taking any supplement. Any supplement may accidentally contain gluten as a result from cross-contamination during the manufacturing process, cautions the Mayo Clinic. Some supplements also have gluten products as a filler or inactive ingredients such as food starch. Look for "gluten-free" on the label or contact the drug company for information regarding the ingredients.
Benefits
Using supplements to complement your gluten-free diet provides a well-rounded nutrition plan for optimal health and wellness. After removing gluten from your diet, the inflammation in the small intestine reduces and promotes regrowth and healing of the villi, which are tiny, finger-like projections that line the wall of the intestine. The regrowth process, however, may take months to years, depending on the damage to the villi and the overall quality of your gluten-free diet.
Foods
Certain grain products such as bread and pasta are now available in gluten-free alternatives. By adding these alternatives into your diet, you can obtain the daily recommended amounts of certain nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and fiber with the gluten-free supplements, adding more nutrients to complete your nutrition plan. You can also substitute your own gluten-free grains such as rice, buckwheat, corn, tapioca or sorghum. Also, fresh fruits and vegetables are gluten-free and full of fiber, vitamins and minerals.
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