According to research, about 0.6% to 6% of people have gluten intolerance (celiac disease). However, experts say that this number may be higher than 50% due to undiagnosed cases.
The best way to avoid the health issues caused by celiac disease is by adopting a gluten-free diet. This step can also help you achieve a healthy weight, boost energy, and strengthen your immune system.
While a gluten-free diet has many benefits, identifying the best foods can be tricky. Here, we discuss three options you must try to achieve your health or fitness goals. We’ll also provide tips on how to identify such foods or products when shopping.
Table of Contents
1. Plant-Based Proteins
Eating legumes like beans, lentils, soy, and peas are perfect ways to make your diet more interesting when avoiding gluten products. These foods contain a high level of proteins that can prevent cell damage. They also have fiber and nutrients that are good for your digestive system.
If you love wheat pasta but want to go gluten-free, replace it with options made from red lentils or chickpeas. Besides, consider incorporating legumes like beans into your breakfast and lunches. You can also try out soybeans and peas for dinner with a plate of rice.
Another alternative is a gluten-free protein powder, which you can add to your favorite hot drinks or milkshakes. If you haven’t used such products before, learn more about them to discover their benefits and ways to incorporate them into your diet.
2. Gluten-Free Bread
When going gluten-free, you may find it tricky to stop taking bread. Luckily, there are now numerous alternatives to help you continue enjoying your favorite recipes without adverse health effects.
It’s bread contains wheat flour replacement options like almond, rice, or potato flour. It may also consist of tapioca or cornstarch and other gluten-free baking ingredients.
When unsure where to get such foods, visit [gluten-free] restaurants in your locality. Here, you’ll discover fantastic food combos and tasty recipes.
Alternatively, shop for gluten-free bread in organic specialty stores. You can also check out major chain stores for such products, but ensure you only pick items with a label on the packaging.
3. Animal Proteins
Animal proteins are among the gluten-free foods you will easily find in restaurants and stores. These contain essential amino acids that can enhance exercise performance. Some of the animal proteins you need to try out are:
- Fish
- Poultry
- Lobsters
- Shrimp
- Cheese
Most animal proteins combine well with cereal grains like rice and legumes such as French beans. Options like eggs and milk can also make tasty pastries when mixed with corn or potato flour.
If you love barbeques, you can also enjoy your favorite steak recipe or grilled sausages with some vegetables and a gluten-free beer.
Try Out These Gluten-Free Foods
It doesn’t mean that you’ll now eat tasteless or less nutritious foods. By trying out the discussed options, you can make your diet more exciting and flavorful. You’ll also learn amazing recipes that are perfect alternatives for some [gluten] meals you loved before.
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