Gluten-Free Diet 101 – A Beginners Guide

Where to begin when starting a gluten-free diet

In recent years, gluten-free food products have become much more readily available at supermarkets and grocery stores across the country. Today, we are also seeing restaurants offering gluten-free items on their menus. The gluten-free food trend is becoming much more common as more people learn about the health benefits of following a gluten-free diet. These products, which were once scarce or even non-existent on grocery store shelves, are now being embraced by thousands of families and individuals.

Why Do People Eat Gluten-Free Foods?

Following a gluten-free diet is a necessity for many. Individuals suffering from celiac disease have trouble digesting the protein gluten, which is found in wheat, rye and barley. Eating gluten causes an immune reaction that damages the small intestines for those with celiac disease or certain gluten intolerances. The resulting lack of nutrient absorption can affect the brain, nervous system, liver and other vital organs. Celiac disease has also been linked to osteoporosis, Type 1 diabetes and anemia.

Other health-related reasons have prompted more and more people to try a gluten-free diet. Many who follow a gluten-free diet report that their energy and digestive health improves. Others believe in following a gluten-free diet to help improve the symptoms associated with autism, schizophrenia, M.S., attention deficit disorder, migraines and fertility problems.

How Do I Know Which Foods are Gluten-Free?

It can be difficult to determine for many which foods are gluten-free. There are many grocery stores and health food stores that are now dedicatint numerous shelves or sections of the store to gluten-free foods. These foods are more diverse than ever and include products like brownies, pastas, crackers, cereals, cookies, bagels and even beer. Furthermore, with the rising success of the gluten-free industry, more products are becoming available every day, and consumers claim that taste has improved as well.

While the gluten-free sections of the grocery stores are very helpful, most likely they do not contain all of the food your family needs to follow a gluten-free diet. It is important to find the foods that contain gluten that can cause an item to be undsafe for those who follow a gluten-free diet. Some foods that must be avoided are ones that contain wheat, barley, rye, malt, durum, and spelt. Foods that are gluten-free friendly are rice, potatoes, corn, tapioca and buckwheat which make great substitutes for the gluten items.

Where Do I Begin?

If you are planning on starting a gluten-free diet, you should consult your doctor for specific instructions on what to avoid and how to ensure you’re getting all the nutrients and vitamins you need. To better help you shop for gluten-free foods, consider buying a gluten-free shopping guide to take the guesswork out of grocery shopping.