Gluten is a protein found in many common grains, including wheat, barley and rye. For individuals with an intolerance to gluten, developing a gluten-free diet can be very imposing. Many categories of foods are unsafe to consume, and not all of these gluten-bearing products are easy to identify. Many alcoholic drinks also contain gluten. Fortunately, there are some alternative drink options.
Damage From Gluten
When the body cannot process gluten, it enters the small intestine and causes damage to the organ's lining. Gluten continues to pass through the small intestine and into the large intestine, where bacteria is finally capable of breaking down the protein. When this occurs, gas is created, resulting in bloating and abdominal cramps only relieved by passing gas and excreting the gluten from the body.
Alcoholic Drink Risks
A wide range of alcoholic drinks contain gluten. Many types of beer are made from wheat, which features gluten. Malt beverages, such as barley wine, are produced from barley grains, another gluten-bearing grain. You must also be wary of drinks containing caramel coloring -- this can be added to otherwise gluten-free drinks to change the color of the beverage. Many liquors are also made from grains, but these can be a little trickier -- and a little more accessible. Any liquor whose label says it has been distilled is safe to drink -- the distillation process eliminates gluten and produces a gluten-free alcoholic beverage, even if it is made from wheat, barley or other grains, according to Celiac.com. Wine is safe to drink, but wine coolers can be dangerous if the ingredients label lists malt or caramel coloring. When in doubt, read the label to look for gluten-bearing grains, malt or caramel coloring -- all of which contain gluten -- or talk to a dietitian to confirm the safety of an alcoholic beverage.
Gluten-free Alcohol
If you are interested in drinking gluten-free alcoholic beverages, wine is a safe choice, as are distilled liquors. Other types of alcohol that are not made from gluten-bearing grains and are always safe to drink include brandy, champagne, cognac, gin, rum, Scotch whisky, tequila and vodka, according to Celiac.com. Some beer is made from sorghum, which does not contain gluten and is safe to consume. Hard ciders that do not contain caramel coloring are safe, as is some hard lemonade.
Considerations
If you are unsure of the safety of certain alcoholic beverages, consult your doctor or a nutritionist to determine what you can and cannot drink. You can also obtain a list of foods and ingredients to watch out for when choosing gluten-free products. If you suspect an alcoholic beverage you are consuming contains gluten, stop drinking the beverage immediately. If symptoms of gluten damage become overwhelming, seek medical attention.
