Those who suffer from
celiac
disease understand very specifically the problems that come along with
eating gluten. Celiac is a very specific disease that causes upset in the digestive
system when the intestines try to process foods containing gluten. Symptoms of
celiac disease include severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, nutritional deficiency,
and vitamin deficiency. Over time, the result of celiac disease can lead to
organ damage if you continue to eat a diet high in gluten.
The disease can’t be
cured at this time, but it can be properly managed. The most important tool you
have to managing your condition is your diet. Simple dietary changes can
guarantee you do not suffer the symptoms of the disease.
Thankfully, numerous
restaurants and food manufacturers have recognized the need to offer gluten
free foods. Because of this, you have access to more meals, and better tasting
foods, than you once would have been able to choose. However, you still need to
be smart about the choices you make so that you can avoid the impact of gluten
on your body. Here are tips you can use to keep your diet gluten free and
tasteful.
Know Your Grains
A gluten free diet
can be especially confusing if you are new to it. There are certain grains
considered perfectly safe and others that you can’t have. Your first step to eating a healthy diet will
include knowing your grains. It could be helpful to post a safe and unsafe list
on your refrigerator.
Safe Grains
You can have the
following grains without worry. With the exception of oats, which is still
under controversy, these grains are completely gluten free and safe.
- Buckwheat
- Millet
- Corn
- Quinoa
- Sorghum
- Amaranth
- Oats (as mentioned, under
controversy)
Unsafe Grains
The grains below do
contain gluten, and they should never be included in your diet if you have
celiac disease. Very specifically, you must avoid anything that contains wheat
or is wheat based. Unsafe grains include:
- Wheat
- Barley
- Rye
- Triticale
- Wheat Starch
Look for Gluten Free
Baking Options
Many people think
that cutting gluten from their diet means cutting out anything they would
enjoy. However, as mentioned, numerous food manufacturers are recognizing the
need for specialty foods and are producing tasty meals you can enjoy. These
include baking mixes. These mixes use different types of gluten free flour, so
you will need to try a few different options to determine which tastes best for
you.
Many grocery stores
include a specific aisle dedicated to these foods. However, if you have trouble
finding options at your regular market, consider visiting a health foods store.
Foods to Be Careful
Of Eating
Trying to lead a
normal life while dealing with celiac disease can be quite difficult.
Obviously, you want to eat normal foods, but there are numerous foods that may
or may not contain gluten. The list below includes foods that you should be
careful of. Make sure to read the label before consuming them.
- Bread
- Cake
- Cereal
- Beer
- French Fries
- Pasta
- Salad Dressing
- Candy
- Sauce
- Snack Foods
- Soup
- Sauced Vegetables
In order to ensure
you are living a completely gluten free life, you will need to carefully read
labels before you purchase anything in the grocery store. If you are eating in
a restaurant, then you may need to avoid these foods or request a gluten free
menu before ordering.
Celiac disease can be
completely controlled with diet. You don’t have to suffer from the digestive
upset if you choose to eat a diet free of gluten. The tips above can be very
helpful in guiding you to the best dietary choices without having to give up
your favorite foods.
Valerie
Johnston is a health and fitness writer located in East Texas. With ambitions
of one day running a marathon, writing for Healthline.com
ensures
she keeps up-to-date on all of the latest health and fitness news.
The above post contains information on maintaining a gluten free diet. The information provided in the post is the opinion of the writer, and is not meant to replace the advice of a doctor.
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