Gluten-free foods: what they are, what they are, and why they are needed

Gluten-free products are chosen by adherents of healthy eating. Although doctors and nutritionists have not come to a common denominator as to whether or not gluten is harmful to the human body. The only thing that has been proven is that some people are intolerant to this protein. They should not eat food that contains gluten, because it can cause serious complications. They must follow a gluten-free diet for the rest of their lives.

Cereals are the main source of gluten, so people with gluten intolerance should not eat almost any type of baked goods, bread, or other foods that contain flour. However, special gluten-free baking products based on rice, buckwheat and corn flour are available.

What is gluten and how can it be dangerous?

Gluten is called gluten. It is essentially a plant protein found in wheat and other grains. Gluten is dangerous for people who are intolerant to this substance. In such cases, we are talking about celiac disease, an autoimmune pathology in which the body mistakes gluten for a toxin. The intestinal mucosa is attacked by the immune system.

Celiac disease is a rare disease. Only 1% of the world's population is affected. The symptoms of this disease include:

• stool disorder in a chronic form;
• flatulence;
• abdominal discomfort;
• upset stomach.

Against the background of celiac disease can develop complications in the form of anemia, osteoporosis and weight loss. Other dangerous conditions include female infertility, nervous system disorders. In order to prevent such complications from developing, it is necessary to eliminate foods containing gluten from your diet.

Gluten-free diet and its peculiarities

Gluten-free diet helps to prevent relapses of celiac disease. Foods containing gluten are excluded from the diet in case of wheat allergy. This protein is not harmful to most people.

Gluten has no nutritional value, but it is present in many products that contain the substances the body needs. In addition, gluten has the ability to act like a prebiotic, nourishing the «good» bacteria that live in the intestines.

Gluten-free diet implies the elimination of all products that have gluten in their composition. But to avoid a lack of nutrients in the menu in sufficient quantities should be present cereals and legumes, which do not contain gluten.

For some people, a gluten-free diet is not a choice, but a necessity of life. It is mostly present in cereals. These are the ones that need to be removed from the diet for those with celiac disease. In order to prevent gluten from entering the body, it is necessary to forget about confectionery products. It is also necessary to reduce carbohydrate intake.

But the diet should be formed so that the body does not feel the lack of nutrients. Otherwise, health problems are inevitable. The basis of the gluten-free diet consists of:

• fruits with vegetables;
• low-fat dairy products;
• eggs;
• gluten-free grains;
• legumes.

People on a gluten-free diet are allowed to eat meat and fish. Eggs and nuts are also not contraindicated to them. Gluten-free drinks include tea without flavorings, wine, and fruit juices. Rice, buckwheat, and quinoa can be consumed while following a similar diet.

Flour products, including bread, are categorically contraindicated. People who are intolerant of gluten should not eat sauces, sausages, and sausage. Malt and its derivatives are prohibited. Some types of condiments, stock cubes, potato chips, and salad dressings are excluded from the diet.