Living with gluten intolerance

Ever wondered what imitation meats are made of? They’re created with the help of a protein composite called gluten. Gluten is also used to give elasticity to dough, helping it rise and giving a chewy texture to the end product.

A source of protein, gluten is sometimes used as an additive to foods low in protein. Pet foods also contain it. The main components of this protein composite are wheat, barley and rye.

Despite its wide use in foods, there are people who suffer from gluten intolerance (not to be confused with wheat intolerance). This intolerance can be categorized into two – celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. To find out if you suffer from any of them, you will have to undergo a gluten intolerance test. Some of the more common symptoms include bloating, gas and flatulence, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, distension and weight loss or gain. There are many other symptoms you can check out on the Internet as the list is quite long.

As gluten is so widely used, it can be tricky cutting if off from your diet. Extensive investigation will have to be conducted to ensure any product you consume is free from gluten. Be wary of foods containing ‘natural additives’ or ‘natural flavoring’. You best bet is to go for foods that are completely natural to avoid unknowingly consuming those containing gluten.

For healthy diet recipes, visit the many websites on the Internet that have information on organic, fat-free, gluten-free and low calorie diets. Knowing your body type, allergies and intolerances can help you choose diets especially for you. Of course, if money is not an object, you can also consult a nutritionist.

If you’re a vegan or vegetarian suffering from gluten intolerance, you may need to do away with imitation meats. As a substitute, you can try soy curls, texturised vegetable protein (TVP) or texturised soy protein (TSP). Read the ingredients carefully before you purchase them, to be on the safe side.

Allergies and intolerances to something or the other are a part of every person’s health. Though it may not be possible to test yourself for every possible one, knowing yourself and your reaction to certain products can go a long way in preventing unwanted intolerances. Coupled with healthy diet recipes, knowledge can save your health and at times, even your life.