1. Many Beverages Contain Gluten
For people with gluten sensitivity, or Celiac disease, repeated intake of gluten, the storage protein in many grain-based foods, must be avoided. Beverages that generally contain gluten include malted milk, milkshakes, instant tea, coffee substitutes, chocolate and fruit mixed beverages, herbal teas, beer and some soy and rice beverages. These items will cause negative symptoms in those with Celiac disease or other gluten-related health conditions such as diabetes, gluten sensitivity and even autism.
2. Focusing on the Beverages You Can Enjoy
If you are sensitive to or intolerant of gluten, focus on the beverages you can enjoy to avoid feeling restricted or deprived. Many beverages are gluten-free, including tea, instant or ground coffee, cocoa, soft drinks, cider and some soy and rice beverages. Distilled alcoholic beverages are acceptable as well, such as brandy, champagne, rum, gin, whiskey, vodka, wines and other pure liqueurs. Even vodka, which is distilled by a grain, is gluten-free. This is because the distillation process eliminates the gluten factor completely.
3. Health Food Stores Offer Many Gluten-Free Beverages
With the vast number of people suffering from Celiac or gluten-related health conditions (more than 22 million, according to the National Celiac Foundation), health food store now offer a plethora of beverage options that are gluten-free. Special dessert drinks, shake mixes and even beer are available. Stocking up on such products in your gluten-free kitchen allows for heightened variety and fulfillment. They are slightly more expensive than conventional drinks, but well worth the health benefits if you are sensitive to gluten.
4. You Can Make Your Own Gluten-Free Beverages
Using your own creativity, concoct your own gluten-free drink concoctions, such as milk shakes made from milk, cocoa, banana and rice syrup or sucralose sweetener (such as Splenda). Enjoy a nutrient-packed breakfast smoothie by combining banana, 3 cups kale, 3 cups berries, 2 tbs. flax seed and 1 cup milk or water. Homemade beer can be made gluten-free as well, using malted buckwheat, corn sugar, hops and ale yeast. Experiment in your own kitchen and keep track of your favorite recipes for future use and enjoyment. A gluten-free cookbook is also a great idea to enhance your gluten-free skills and lifestyle.
5. Certain Ingredients to Avoid
Even beverages that generally do not include gluten provide some form of gluten. For this reason, check labels carefully when enjoying pre-made beverages. In general, watch out for beverages that contain wheat, rye or barley. If the ingredient list includes stabilizer, starch flavoring, emulsifier, hydrolyzed plant protein, malt or malt flavoring, vegetable gum, soy sauce or soy sauce solids, chances are the beverage contains gluten. Keep a list of ingredients in your purse or wallet for extra precaution, sharing the list with restaurant servers and store clerks when needed.
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