Gluten Allergy Symptoms
In wheat, barley,and rye, there is a tough protein called gluten. This substance is what makes the dough bind, which you can see in baked breads and other baked foods. Although these grains contain gluten, which may cause a gluten allergy in responsive people, they contain numerous additional proteins that can also trigger allergy symptoms. Oats have no gluten but are usually processed with the above grains, so cross contamination is the issue with oats.
Following a gluten free diet is not easy, and you will need to become an expert in reading labels. As mentioned, gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, barley and a few other closely related grains. However, it’s also found in a large percentage of processed foods , including things you may not expect: like low fat yogurt. It’s used for a number of purposes (apart from the obvious pastry and bread): to mask a high fat content, to replace the creaminess lost in producing a low fat version of something, to thicken gravy etc, and to add bulk.
Buy foods labeled gluten free, which will have been processed in a gluten free facility, the downside is expense. Start the easy way, by buying some steak, chicken or fish, and serving it up with some potatoes and vegetables – presto, a gluten free meal without even thinking about it. Basically, avoid food coated in batter, crumbs or sauces. Watch out! some frozen products like roasting potatoes are coated, which may not be obvious. You will need to make your own using gluten free ingredients if you want these. Watch out for malt and derivatives, modified starch and soy sauce. Soy sauce is made with wheat! There are gluten free varieties available, but these are very expensive and not usually found in your local store.
Dont panic this is a learning process that takes time. You may find that things improve just by reducing your overall gluten and processed food intake. Also if not sure you have celiac disease dont focus only on gluten. Look at improving digestion, probiotics and even exercise. Another standout allergen can be dairy, so consider it.