Understanding The Gluten Free Lifestyle

By Rosetta Drake


Anyone who is intolerant to gluten, a specific type of protein, or suffers from celiac disease has likely discovered that they must live a gluten free lifestyle. On a such a diet, an individual must abstain from all fare that contains this protein, including products made with wheat and certain types of grain. Rye and barley must also typically be avoided, and many kinds of sweets, such as cookies and cake.

As previously mentioned, there are reasons other than celiac disease that may require one to follow the diet outlined above. However, celiac disease is the most common of these reasons. It is a condition of the intestinal track and severe symptoms occur when a person eats foods that contain gluten. People who are unable to digest the protein must typically become accustomed to a low starch meal program, as the majority of the forbidden foods are rich in carbohydrates.

When a person with celiac disease consumes inappropriate fare, his or her immune system reacts immediately, placing a high level of strain on his or her small intestine. It can cause considerable damage to the lining of the intestinal tract, and for this reason many individuals with celiac disease are unable to absorb certain nutrients.

The vitamin and mineral deficiency associated with the aforementioned disorder can cause a broad range of medical problems. The latter include nervous system disorders, organ damage, joint and bone abnormalities, and neurological changes. A child who suffers from the condition may become the victim of growth abnormalities that medical science cannot reverse.

All fare containing this protein must be entirely avoided by those who are intolerant to the substance. However, unprocessed produce, eggs, dairy products and meat can be consumed freely, provided no cross-contamination has occurred with products that contain the protein. Fortunately, most vegetables and fruits naturally gluten-free.

Processed foods, including certain jams and jellies, specific brands of butter, soups and prepackaged dinners may contain traces of the protein. For this reason, it is in one's best interest to err on the side of caution if he or she is unsure about a particular food. Numerous processed foods feature an 800 on their labels that a customer can call if he or she needs to learn more about the product's specific ingredients.

Many individuals who must adhere to a diet that is free of the aforementioned protein find that learning new recipes is very helpful. Because of the increase in celiac disease and similar illnesses, the demand for gluten-free recipes has surged over the past few years. This is why one will find that many cookbooks can be obtained that feature recipes that do not require the aforementioned ingredient. Such information can help men and women to create tasty, satisfying meals, while adhering to the appropriate restrictions concerning their condition.

A doctor or specialist can order tests to discover if a particular person should be following a gluten free lifestyle. Ignoring symptoms or assuming that food intolerance is not anything with which to be concerned is not a good idea. Anyone who suspects that a disorder such as celiac disease is present should seek the advice of a doctor or other healthcare practitioner. This is the only way to receive a definitive diagnosis, and subsequently make any necessary changes to one's diet.




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