Gluten Freedom - Intro

“So, wait. What can you eat?”

If you have celiac disease or intolerance to gluten, you’ve heard this all too much. If your gut can handle the big G, you just may be the one asking. Regardless, we’re jumping on the gluten-free wagon to tackle one of the biggest health food buzzwords around.

But before we get into the nitty-gritty of grain glossaries, gluten-free baking, and packing your pantry, let’s hit the basics with some good ol’ fashioned Gluten 101.

What is gluten, anyway?

Gluten is a combination of two proteins, gliadin and glutenin, found in wheat, barley, and rye. Literally the Latin translation of “glue”, it’s what holds bread, pasta, and baked goods together.

Who needs to avoid it?

Folks with celiac disease, an autoimmune disease that cannot be outgrown, must abstain from gluten-containing grains because it causes intestinal damage and a wealth of symptoms - from gastrointestinal issues, to skin ailments, to neurological impairments. It can only be alleviated by a 100% gluten-free diet.

Some of us have gluten intolerance. Despite having no celiac diagnosis, this doesn’t mean we’re free of the uncomfortable friction caused in our intestines.

And for everyone else, why tune in?

If we were the betting types (oh heck, we do love a game of good ol’ fashioned bingo), we’d wager you know someone who has to eat gluten-free. If not, dabbling in a gluten-free lifestyle lets you venture out of traditional foodie fare, introducing you to alternative grains that are often filled with more fibre, protein, and essential nutrients.

Plus, you’ll certainly benefit from adding some new ingredients and recipes to your culinary repertoire. And thinking outside the wheat-based bread box is one way to get started.

Let’s just say that no corner of the kitchen or product in the pantry will go unturned.

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First up? Sneaky Little Protein.

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Laurie Sadowski is a freelance writer and vegan who really loves food. After being diagnosed with celiac disease, and hearing the words, "what DO you eat?" one too many times, she decided to author a series of cookbooks entitled The Allergy-Free Cook. Visit her at lauriesadowski.com and theallergyfreecook.com.