Today, I’m going to talk about the basics of going gluten-free. There are three different situations where someone is going gluten-free. You are Celiac diagnosed, you are gluten intolerant, or you heard that it’s really easy to lose weight on a gluten-free diet and want to try it. Although, the last one I totally disagree with, but there is something to be said about a low-carb diet. Anyway, no matter what the reason is behind it, there are strict rules that need to be applied to your gluten-free diet and here is some of the basic information that can help you.
First, if you suspect that you may have Celiac Disease, please read this blog post before going gluten-free: Celiac Disease, The Symptoms
What is forbidden?
If you are certain about your condition and are definitely going gluten-free, most grains should be avoided. That does not mean that you cannot enjoy some of them (quinoa, chia, corn, sorgham, teff – all naturally gluten-free). What you should avoid when it comes down to grains is wheat, rye, barley, and most oats. A lot of the delicious everyday foods are naturally gluten-free – you can safely eat eggs, cheese, milk, beans and most importantly fruits and vegetables. If you are not used to some of the gluten-free foods, initially you will experience cravings, like your body is missing substantial ingredients but like anything else in life – it’s about habits and it takes time to adjust and get used to it.
Be more careful with the beverages you drink. You won’t need to remove a good glass of wine from your menu, but you will need to be careful and read the labels of wine coolers, because a lot of them have barley malt added to them. The downside of a gluten-free diet comes with beer. All regular beers sold are made with barley hops and so are loaded with gluten, however if you are a die hard fan, you’ll be happy to know that there are”gluten-free” beers on the market now. Bard’s Beer, and Redbridge are just two of them. You can read my review of them here.
Celiac and gluten sensitivity
The main reason why someone would change their eating habits is health. Getting diagnosed with celiac could be a life changing event. It’s usually surrounded by symptoms like diarrhea, and severe rashes but there are many cases when no symptoms are experienced at all, and yet the disease was present. If you are gluten sensitive a change in the meal plan is necessary as well. The gluten-free diet would have to be for life but if you follow it strictly you can still fully enjoy the rest of your healthy life.
Having to change your diet from regular to gluten-free could be a hassle in the beginning, and could start a life altering chain of events, but with a little guidance, and some common sense, you’ll make it through. The most important tip that I can leave you with is to read the food labels very carefully. Familiarize yourself with the many different names of gluten, and learn how to avoid the foods containing it.
Want the help of a knowledgeable health coach to guide you on your new dietary lifestyle? Just contact me here: Contact Mary
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