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Going Gluten-Free: What You Need to Know
What is gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It gives elasticity to dough and helps it rise. Gluten can also be found in many processed foods, such as soups, sauces, and salad dressings.
Why do people go gluten-free?
Some people go gluten-free because they have celiac disease, a condition in which the immune system reacts to gluten and damages the lining of the small intestine. Others may have a gluten sensitivity or intolerance, which can cause symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and fatigue. Some people also choose to go gluten-free for non-medical reasons, such as weight loss or a perceived health benefit.
What foods are gluten-free?
Foods that are naturally gluten-free include fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. There are also many gluten-free grains and flours, such as rice, quinoa, corn, and almond flour. However, it’s important to check food labels and ingredient lists to make sure they don’t contain gluten.
What are some gluten-free alternatives to common foods?
There are many gluten-free alternatives to common foods, such as bread, pasta, and crackers. For bread, you can try gluten-free bread made with rice flour or almond flour. For pasta, you can try gluten-free pasta made with corn or quinoa. For crackers, you can try gluten-free crackers made with rice or chickpea flour. There are also many gluten-free baking mixes and recipes available for cakes, cookies, and other baked goods.
Is a gluten-free diet healthy?
A gluten-free diet can be healthy if you eat a variety of nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and gluten-free whole grains. However, some gluten-free processed foods may be higher in calories, sugar, and fat than their gluten-containing counterparts. It’s important to read food labels and choose gluten-free foods that are also low in added sugars and unhealthy fats.
Do I need to go gluten-free if I don’t have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity?
No, you don’t need to go gluten-free if you don’t have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity. Gluten is not harmful to most people and can be part of a healthy diet. If you’re considering a gluten-free diet for weight loss or other non-medical reasons, it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to make sure you’re getting all the nutrients you need.
Going gluten-free has become a popular trend in recent years, but it’s important to know the facts before making any dietary changes. By using Schema.org markup, this FAQ-style article provides answers to some common questions about gluten and a gluten-free diet. Remember to always consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making any major changes to your diet.
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