Gluten Free Diet

A Gluten-Free Diet is a diet completely free of gluten. Gluten is a protein found in most grains (specifically those that include rye, barley, or wheat). A Gluten-Free diet is required for sufferers of Celiac disease – a disease that affects the small intestine and interferes with absorption of nutrients from food.

Diet Without Gluten

It is possible to eat a well-balanced diet without gluten. Plain meat, fish, rice, fruits, and vegetables do not contain gluten, so people with celiac disease can eat as much of these foods as they like.

Instead of wheat flour, people can use potato flour, rice flour, soy flour, or bean flour. Or, they can buy gluten-free bread, pasta, and other products from special food companies.

However, like many specialized diets, social situations can be very difficult. All food ingredients should be read carefully to ensure the food does not contain gluten.

Gluten-Free Diet Plan

A complete diet plan can be found on the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) here.

Resources

Gluten intolerance group of North America
Celiac Disease Foundation