To be gluten free means to remove foods and products from your life that contain the protein gluten. Gluten is found in:
Wheat (Durum, Einkorn, Emmer, Kamut, Spelt, Graham, Semolina, Farina)
Rye
Barley (Malt)
Triticale (a cross between wheat and rye)
*also Oats tend to be highly contaminated with gluten
These gluten containing grains can also contaminate other grains and products that are gluten free and trigger a gluten reaction in people.
People who have celiac disease have to follow a gluten free diet to improve their health and manage the symptoms of celiac disease. Gluten triggers an immune system response that damages the small intestine lining. Over time this prevents that absorption of nutrients from food and can lead to a myriad of other health problems and complications. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder.
People who have a gluten sensitivity will also have reactions to gluten and tend to stick to a gluten free diet. They will have similar reactions as people with celiac disease- abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, brain fog, headaches and rashes. However, they do not have damage to the small intestine.
Gluten ataxia is another autoimmune disorder that causes problems with muscle control and muscle movement because it damages the nerve tissues.
If you have a wheat allergy the immune system will mistake gluten or other wheat protein as harmful and create an antibody to the protein. This causes the immune system to respond with congestion, difficulty breathing and other symptoms.
When following a gluten free diet you need to pay close attention to food ingredients and how they are processed.
Eating fresh and unprocessed foods and the best.
Fruits
Vegetables
Lean unprocessed meats, fish and poultry
Eggs
Simple dairy products
There are also some grains that are safe to eat on a gluten free diet, however, you must make sure they have not been contaminated. Look for certified gluten free labels.
Amaranth
Arrowroot
Buckwheat
Corn
Gluten free flour blends
Millet
Quinoa
Rice
Sorghum
Soy (not soy sauce, most include wheat)
Tapioca (cassava)
Teff
*Certified gluten free oats (some people will still react and can not eat oats)
Don't be overwhelmed. I want to give you a few free recipes to boost your confidence. You can do this! Here are my quick and easy recipes for the whole family. Quick GF recipes for everyone.pdf
Do you want to stop the gluten free struggle? Join my free "Striving to Thriving in 28 Days: Gluten Free Wellness Challenge" to help restore your energy and get you on the path of healing.
My group Gluten Free & Thriving Ladies will help you find the resources and the recipes you need to take charge of your health!
It is time to live a thriving life, you owe it to yourself and your family.
Hugs,
Melanie
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