Gluten-Free Diet: Foods You Can Eat, Benefits

Gluten is a protein variant found in wheat, barley, and rye. A gluten-free diet is one that eliminates gluten. For people with chronic digestive and immune disorder, issues of the intestine and wheat allergy, this type of diet is essential to maintaining good health. However, people resort to gluten-free diet for various other reasons too.

In the subsequent sections of this article, we will take a look at some gluten-free diet foods that you can eat and their benefits.

Gluten-Free Foods You Can Eat

Gluten-free foods are natural and can be made a healthy part of our everyday diet. The diet format comes with a variety of options too. It helps maintain the elasticity and moisture of the meals we consume.

Here we bring you some major food items that you may consider incorporating into your gluten-free diet −

Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh fruits and vegetables are naturally gluten-free and rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are also low in calories, making them an ideal choice for weight management. Some fruits and vegetables that are particularly high in nutrients include berries, spinach, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers.

Meats and Fish

Most fresh meats and fish are gluten-free, including beef, chicken, pork, and seafood. However, you should check the label of processed meats such as sausages and deli meats, as they may contain gluten. Meat and fish are excellent sources of protein, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for good health.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are gluten-free and are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E and magnesium. Some examples of gluten-free nuts and seeds include almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds.

Gluten-Free Grains

Several grains are naturally gluten-free, including quinoa, buckwheat, and brown rice. These grains are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, they can be a good alternative to wheat-based products.

Dairy Products

Dairy products are gluten-free, although some people with chronic diseases or immunity disorders may find that they are also lactose intolerant. Dairy products are an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for bone health. Examples of gluten-free dairy products include milk, cheese, and yogurt.

Ingredients to Look Out For

Here is a list of ingredients one must avoid when practicing a gluten-free diet −

• Food additives such as starch and maltodextrin

• Malt-based kinds of vinegar, extracts, and syrups

• Gluten-stabilizers

• Sauces like soy and teriyaki

• Food emulsifiers

• Food thickening and binding agents

Benefits of a Gluten-Free Diet

The benefits are many. We will list down a few benefits for you here −

• It improves health and helps in weight management.

• Reduces the chances of upset stomach and bloating.

• Addresses joint pains.

• Improves gastrointestinal health.

• A gluten-free diet is a rich source of nutrients such as iron and protein.

Side Effects of a Gluten-Free Diet

There is often concern about how justified is a gluten-free diet. While the benefits are worth trying the diet format, we recommend understanding the side effects that follow the lead is important too −

• Fatigue

• Bloating

• Constipation

• Diarrohea

• Unintentional weight loss

• Affects glucose levels and lipid metabolism

Conclusion

A gluten-free diet does not have to be restrictive, and there are many gluten-free diet foods that you can eat. These foods are not only gluten-free but also rich in nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants, which are essential for good health. Therefore, if you are considering adopting a gluten-free diet, ensure you have a balanced and varied diet that includes the foods mentioned above.