Gluten Sensitivity Limits Food, But Not Taste, Options

Approximately 1% of the population suffers from a sensitivity to foods containing gluten, also known as celiac disease. Gluten is a major protein found in some grains, including all forms of wheat (bulgur, durum, semolina, spelt and faro), as well as barley and rye. This condition is typically diagnosed when a young child starts eating foods containing these grains. Children with celiac disease are usually plagued with symptoms such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, bloating, mouth sores and an increased susceptibility to infections.

Once the disease is diagnosed, patients are instructed to permanently eliminate any foods that contain gluten from their diet. Many doctors also prescribe supplements to counter any nutritional deficiencies. Living with celiac disease requires the patient to become an avid label reader to ensure that foods consumed in or outside the home do not contain any grain based ingredients or look for foods marked “gluten free”.

Gluten-Free Food Sources
According to the Mayo Clinic many healthy and delicious foods are naturally gluten-free:

§  Beans, seeds, nuts in their natural, unprocessed form

§  Fresh eggs

§  Fresh meats, fish and poultry (not breaded, batter-coated or marinated)

§  Fruits and vegetables

§  Most dairy products

It's important for celiac disease sufferers to make sure that foods are not processed or mixed with gluten-containing grains, additives or preservatives. Many grains and starches which can be part of a gluten-free diet include: Amaranth, Arrowroot, Buckwheat, Corn and cornmeal, Flax, Gluten-free flours (rice, soy, corn, potato, bean), Hominy (corn), Millet, Quinoa, Rice, Sorghum, Soy, Tapioca, and Teff.

Gluten Free Resources

There are several “gluten-free” cook books available which provide a good source of tasty recipes and food combinations including, “The South Beach Diet Gluten Solution”, and “The Mayo Clinic Diet”. If you have questions or concerns about living with or treating celiac disease you are encouraged to consult with your physician.