The Good The Bad And The Gluten

Many of us today have heard about gluten intolerance, we may even be one who suffers from its effects. Gluten comes from wheat, it is the protein that gives dough that fabulous elasticity. However it has become somewhat of a trouble maker today, leaving many on the search for a gluten free diet.

What are the negative affects of gluten

Gluten does not effect everyone the same. Some have developed an intolerance and even worse and allergic reaction while yet others are completely unaffected. So why is this happening? The answer is not simple and may very from person to person. Some believe it due to the over use of gluten that has left our bodies susceptible to a reaction. Others say it is the conditions under which the wheat is grown, pesticide laden, depleted soil, and herbicide ridden. Although it may be both of the above, we do know it affects the immune system and can be passed down from generation to generation like many auto immune disorders. The good thing is if you suffer from gluten reactions there is relief with the right diet.

Eating Gluten Free

Wheat is one of those sneaky little ingredients that seems to be put into just about anything imaginable. Therefore if you find yourself in search of a gluten free diet its good to know where to start. First things first, because gluten is in wheat, anything, I repeat anything that lists wheat in the ingredients will contain gluten. Many stores even the highly generic ones today will carry an assortment of gluten free products. Looking in the cracker, pasta or tortilla section of your local supermarket you may notice a little green label with the letters GF. These products are certified gluten free and are safe for consumption. You can also find products in the baking isle for this specific diet. Baking without wheat can be tricky, others flours do not have the elasticity to bind them like that of wheat flour. For this reason you will need to use a binder, a popular choice is xanthum gum that can be found online as well as at your local health food store. Because buying gluten free can get pricey, many decide to make their own. Below is a list of grains to consider replacing wheat with.

• Oats
• Quinoa
• Rice
• Buckwheat
• Millet
• Corn
• Sorghum
• Amaranth
• Teff

If the flour is not available from these grains they can easily be ground in a coffee grinder. Many people use different kinds of beans or lentils in their baking additions. Garbanzo beans are great for anything from bread to cupcakes, and some velvety rich brownies are the result of the inconspicuous black bean.

Everything else other than wheat is allowed, so finding creative ways to enjoy your meals will be a huge plus. Check out the list below to get a few ideas for a gluten free diet.

• Cabbage leaves stuffed with just about anything makes for a fresh and crispy meal.
• Bake a potato and top it high.
• Corn tortillas for quesadillas or tacos.
• Zuchinni crust pizza.
• Plantain flour pancakes.
• Yucca root (cassava) cake.

Eggplant parmesan

There are many fantastic online sites full of ideas and support groups for those that deal with gluten sensitivity, joining one of these can be a great benefit to you. Sticking to a gluten free diet may be work, but the energy gained, digestive disorders resolved, and sharp mind are well worth it.
As always consult your physician before beginning any new diet.