About Gluten Free

WHAT IS GLUTEN?

Gluten is a type of protein, which is most commonly found in rye, wheat and barley. When considering flour, gluten is what gives it its elasticity and strength.

WHY FOLLOW A GLUTEN FREE DIET.

The most common reason someone would follow a gluten-free diet is because they suffer from coeliac disease. Coeliac disease is autoimmune deficiency where there is an intestinal intolerance to gluten. Those who develop coeliac disease are already born with a genetic predisposition and common symptoms include:

• Anaemia
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Stomach cramps
• Bloating and flatulence
• Weight loss – although weight gain is possible
• Fatigue and weakness

Very often coeliac disease can be confused with Irritable Bowel Symdrome (IBS), a wheat allergy or just a general food intolerance. Many people with these conditions also find obstaining from gluten helpful.
Many people do not suffer from any intenstinal condition but choose to remove gluten from their diet as a way to stop being bloated after meals, for certain types of eczema, or just to maintain healthy, normal bowel movements.

In today's society many shops and restaurants provide options that cater for a gluten-free diet. There are also many products available that help the transition to gluten-free that much easier. These include Food For Healths Gluten Free Muesli, Gluten Free Bar with Fruit, and Gluten Free Fruit Free Bar.

If you suspect that you may have coeliac disease you should consult your doctor.
A great resource for those with coeliac disease or those wanting more information about how to go gluten free is The Coeliac Society of Australia.