Gluten is a protein that is commonly found in foods containing wheat, oats, rye, barley, and some other forms of carbohydrates.http://whatisgluten.net/ When people have difficulty digesting gluten, they are considered to have a gluten intolerance. People who have this problem will typically experience constipation, bloating, diarrhea, weight gain, fatigue, anemia, hair loss, migraines, depression, psoriasis, arthritis, or even infertility.http://www.puristat.com/glutenintolerance/default.aspx

Typically, people who are diagnosed with gluten intolerance are recommended by physicians to take regular vitamin supplements and begin a gluten-free diet.

Some people who experience a more severe form of gluten intolerance may be diagnosed with Celiac Disease--an auto-immune disorder in which the body reacts to gluten by attacking villi (intestinal components that absorb nutrients from food). This disease in genetic and can cause malnutrition, stunted growth, anemia, rashes, and other health-related issues. Doctors can diagnose Celiac Disease by performing blood tests (endomysial antibody and tissue transglutaminase antibody tests), and perhaps also a biopsy of the small intestines.http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/celiac-disease/features/gluten-intolerance-against-grain?page=2

Gluten-free stores operate in many major cities to cater to people who have gluten intolerance. Many grocery stores also have a gluten-free section of foods available.

The following are typical examples of foods that commonly contain gluten. Such foods are usually best avoided when a person has a gluten intolerance, though in some cases gluten-free versions may be available from specialty shops or specialty sections from grocery stores.

Foods containing oats, wheat, barley, rye, bran, farina, graham flour, durum flour and other carbohydrates could likely contain gluten.http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/celiac-disease/features/gluten-intolerance-against-grain?page=3 In addition these processed foods may also contain gluten as well:

• Salad dressings
• Herbal teas
• Deli meats
• Egg substitutes
• Candies, such as chocolates and licorice
• Beer
• Instant rice (flavored)
• Flavored potato chips
• Imitation crab (surimi)http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/celiac-disease/features/gluten-intolerance-against-grain?page=3

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact a doctor before using the information presented here.