1. You Can Have Your Bread and Eat it, Too!
If you are one of the thousands of folks who suffer from Celiac disease or other gluten sensitive conditions, food choices can be extremely challenging. Many foods contain gluten-based products, breads in particular. Healthy and delicious gluten-free breads do exist and are available at most health food stores, some grocers and can be conveniently made in your own home.
2. Many Forms of Gluten are Hidden
Most people know that wheat based products contain gluten. And obviously, if any of the ingredients on a bread include the word "gluten," it is not gluten free. However, there are many forms of gluten that are more hidden and should be avoided. Some of these sources include wheat protein, bleached flour, bran, bread flour, brewer's yeast, brown flour, bulgur, edible starch, malt extract, germ, rice malt, spelt and vegetable starch. Your best bet is to seek out breads that state "gluten free" on the packaging. When in doubt, skip the bread product at that particular meal.
3. Baking Your Own Gluten-Free Breads Requires Special Care
Baking your own gluten-free bread can be highly enjoyable and allows you to be in control of exactly what ingredients you utilize. Special steps can be taken to ensure the tastiest most successful gluten-free loaves. For optimal baking results, warm liquids to 100 degrees F. Use gluten-free flours and eggs at room temperature. Bread machines ease the process greatly, eliminating the need to pre-mix ingredients and resulting in well-blended consistency. You may need to experiment with balancing wet and dry ingredients, as appropriate balance is key.
4. Gluten-Free Breads are Healthy
You don't need to be on a special diet or suffer a particular allergy in order to reap nutritional benefits from gluten-free breads. Such breads are generally void of processed carbohydrates, chemicals and preservatives. Explore your neighborhood health store to broaden your bread-eating horizons, enjoying breads made from rye, spelt, rice flour, oats or other grains. If a friend or loved one suffers from Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, sharing in gluten-free eating can be supportive, nutritious and enjoyable.
5. Gluten-Free Bread is Versatile
Rather than simply enjoying gluten-free bread plain or as part of a simple sandwich, get creative! Use your gluten-free bread dough to make healthy pizzas, topped with low-fat cheese and veggies for added nutrients. Make gluten-free French toast by dipping the bread in egg whites and a splash of milk and cinnamon. Grill and top with fruit or rice syrup. Leftover bread can be used to create healthy gluten-free croutons by leaving them out on a countertop for several hours or by toasting or baking them. Use the croutons to top salads. Explore, have fun and create!
