Do you know anyone who has been put on a gluten-free diet? Have you heard anyone talking about it? Have you noticed the numerous products in the grocery store that are gluten-free? Have you wondered what it was?

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, malts, rye, etc. It is often found in foods such as bread, pasta, crackers, cereal, candies, brown-colored soda, beer and gravy. Manufacturers now make gluten-free products that are not made with any ingredients with gluten in it.

What are some foods that do not have gluten in them? Rice, corn, potato, soy, buckwheat, most dairy products, eggs, meats, beans, fish, fruits, and vegetables.

How many Americans have Celiac Disease? Approximately one percent of Americans have this disease and are on a gluten-free diet. What happens if you have this disease and eat some food with gluten in it? You become ill, have stomach pain and diarrhea. Their small intestines become inflamed and damaged. After multiple exposures to gluten, the intestines lose their ability to absorb essential nutrients.

Is this a good diet for someone to go on if they wish to lose weight? No. There is no evidence that a gluten-free diet will lead to weight lose. Gluten-free foods have about the same number of calories as regular foods. Often gluten-free food has increased sugar and fat to make them more tasty.