Gluten is a protein in many foods produced from or containing grains. Most people are able to consume and process gluten without any side effects, but others may have a sensitivity or intolerance to the protein that greatly restricts what they can consume. If you suffer from this condition, most beers could cause symptoms.
Gluten Allergy
Gluten allergy can be called many things, including a sensitivity or intolerance to gluten, but the effects are the same -- some people are unable to process gluten in their digestive tract and may suffer damage to the gastrointestinal tract, depending on the type of intolerance. This condition is not curable, but making lifestyle changes can help you manage your gluten allergy, heal your internal injuries and preserve your health. Eliminating gluten-containing foods is the key adjustment you will have to make.
Gluten in Beer
Gluten is in any product produced using a gluten-containing grain. These grains include wheat, barley and rye, among many other less common grains. Many of these grains, particularly wheat and barley, are used in a range of beers. No matter how beer is processed or made, gluten cannot be extracted from the beer if it contains any of these grains, making it an off-limits item for those with a gluten allergy.
Gluten-Free Alternatives
Most beers contain gluten in some form, but there are some gluten-free alternatives. Beers made from sorghum, for example, do not contain gluten because sorghum is gluten-free. Hard ciders are another alternative to beer that provide alcohol in similar concentrations but do not have gluten in them, unless they have caramel coloring added -- caramel coloring does contain gluten. If you are in doubt about the safety of consuming a beverage, talk to your doctor or a nutritionist.
Considerations
Some people confuse an allergy to a specific grain with an allergy or intolerance to gluten. Having an allergy to wheat, for example, does not necessarily mean your body responds adversely to wheat. If you experience an allergic reaction to consuming a number of types of grains, though, gluten could be the culprit. A blood test administered by a doctor can accurately diagnose the source of your allergy.
