by Lori Savery-Hinze

Created on: May 10, 2011   Last Updated: May 11, 2011

Gluten-free diets have been on the rise in recent years. For individuals living with a diagnosis of celiac disease, a gluten-free diet is essential for maintaining their health. However, a growing number of gluten-free consumers claim that their diet has been beneficial in treating other health conditions, including allergies, asthma, arthritis, autism, ADHD, and irritable bowel syndrome, to name a few. Some even claim that living gluten-free has been beneficial for weight loss and report generally just feeling better. For a number of people suffering from different health concerns, a gluten-free diet is worth considering. The tough part is knowing where to begin.

According to the FDA, the term gluten refers to a specific complex of proteins that form when wheat flour is mixed with a liquid. However, in the context of celiac disease, the term gluten refers to the proteins found in other grains that prove problematic for individuals with celiac disease. Such grains include wheat, rye, and barley. Related proteins are also found in triticale, spelt, and kamut. These grains are subspecies or hybrids of wheat. Some people with gluten sensitivities have found that they were able to digest spelt because it has a lower gluten strength. However, as a subspecies of wheat, spelt is not gluten-free. There has been some debate about whether oats can be considered gluten-free. The real risk with oats is in their handling and potential cross-contamination with other grains. For this reason, the Celiac Sprue Association (CSA) advises those with a new diagnosis of celiac disease to wait until their health is restored before including oats in their diet.

When starting a gluten-free diet, it is important to get used to reading labels. Even some varieties of herbal teas contain gluten by including barley in their ingredients. A simple diet of unprocessed meats, fresh fruits and vegetables are a safe way to start, but many gluten-free consumers are eager to find the perfect substitute for their favorite breads, cereals, snack foods and desserts. Until you are confident in your knowledge of what to avoid, look for products that say “Gluten-Free” right on the front of the package. Most grocery stores now have an entire section devoted to gluten-free foods. Many gluten-free consumers have been pleasantly surprised to find gluten-free cookies, pancake mixes, brownie mixes, breads, pizza crusts, crackers, and pastas. Some of the top producers of gluten-free products

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