Avoiding gluten is essential if you suffer from Celiac disease. While gluten, or the protein found in wheat, is primarily found in foods, some beverages may be inappropriate for a gluten-free diet. Fortunately, an increased awareness of Celiac disease and gluten-intolerance has opened up additional options, including gluten-free beers and liquors.
Milk and Juice
Plain milk, including whole, reduced-fat and skim milk are gluten-free. Flavored milks may be gluten-free, but you should check labels or consult the manufacturer. Cream, including half-and-half and heavy whipping cream, are gluten-free. Choose 100 percent fruit juices without added ingredients, including orange juice, apple juice, or your personal favorite. You can safely opt for 100 percent juice juices or milk at home or when eating out.
Soft Drinks
All soft drinks, including colas, lemon-lime sodas and other flavors are gluten-free. You can safely enjoy your favorites from cans, bottles, or as fountain drinks. Be sure that cups or glasses are clean and straws are free from potential gluten contamination, particularly in restaurants.
Hot Drinks
Black coffee and brewed tea are gluten-free. Packaged creamer and non-dairy creamer may not be. Opt for heavy cream, half-and-half or milk if you prefer to drink your coffee or tea on the light side. Cocoa and instant hot cider are typically gluten-free; however, you should check labels if you opt for instant drink mixes.
Liquor, Beer and Wine
Distilled liquors, including whiskey, vodka, tequila, gin and rum, are considered gluten-free, regardless of the starch used to produce the alcohol. All wines, including port and sherry, are gluten-free; however, wine coolers and similar drinks may be malt based and unacceptable for those on a gluten-free diet. While most beers do contain gluten, a few gluten-free options are available and will be clearly labeled as such. Some gluten-free beers are produced with gluten-free grains, while others are carefully filtered to contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten.
