Finding Healthy Snacks
Suitable For A
Gluten Free Lifestyle

Finding suitable healthy snacks for a gluten free lifestyle is a reality for many. Allergies and diseases related to the complex protein found in wheat and other cereal grains can be serious. With this in mind, understanding what to avoid and how to compensate for a lack of grain-rich foods is essential.

Diets without gluten are quite common because this particular allergy tends to strike all ages. When people are allergic to gluten, it means they cannot eat wheat, and possibly other grains like rye, barley and oats.

People with celiac disease must also avoid gluten at all costs. In this case, the disease is an autoimmune condition that causes damage to the small intestine when gluten is consumed. This condition can have serious complications if it is allowed to continue unchecked and without any alteration in the diet.

For those requiring a diet that is free of gluten, there are a number of options available. This particular food allergy, although not the most common, is one that is highly recognized. Pre-made products without gluten and a variety of recipes exist to keep this type of diet balanced and diverse.

Many people are still uncomfortable reading ingredient labels even months to years after their diagnosis. If you have a problem deciphering the information on the label, help is available at the following company. Many of the common items found in a grocery store have already been checked and verified whether they are safe for the gluten free diet.

What To Look For In Labels

The first line of defense when gluten allergies are present is understanding what to look for in food labels.

Beyond the obvious avoidance of wheat, wheat flour, rye, barley and other related grains, it is also important to look for other ingredients that are derived from these foods.

Some of the items on labels to watch out for when gluten avoidance is a must include:

• Malt (common in some alcoholic drinks)

• Caramel coloring

• Semolina

• Couscous

• Modified food starch

• Soy sauce

• MSG

Finding Prepackaged Foods

Preparing Foods Without Gluten

Look for recipes on sites dedicated to gluten allergies or a disease known as celiac. Some of the foods commonly recommended for people with gluten concerns include:

• Meats and fish

• Chickpeas

• Fresh fruits

• Fresh vegetables

• Potato, corn and rice flours

• Dairy products that are clearly labeled as being free of gluten

Avoiding Gluten When Dining Out

Below is an entire list of terms, when seen on a menu, or any pre-packaged food, generally means this item was made with a gluten-based product. Be careful of these terms and verify their safety before ordering or purchasing any of these products.

• Au Gratin
• Battered
• Bechamel
• Breaded
• Croquette
• Croutons
• Crusted
• Demi-Glace
• Dredged
• Dusted
• Filo
• Fricassee
• Fritter
• Gnocchi
• Gravy
• Marinade
• Roux
• Souffle
• Soy Sauce
• Streusel
• Teriyaki
• Tempura

For most people, adopting a gluten free lifestyle isn’t a choice; it’s a necessity. When celiac disease is present or allergies are a problem, learning to live a gluten free life is not only possible but can lead to a happier and healthier lifestyle.

Fortunately, there are ways to avoid gluten entirely when diligence is exercised. Make it a habit to learn the rules and follow the directives so you can lead a safe gluten free life.

Additional Related Topics:

• new diet

• guar gum

• xanthan gum

• vegetable gum