Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Some people have a condition called celiac disease, which means their body can’t handle gluten and it causes damage to their small intestine. For them, eating gluten can lead to symptoms like stomach pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. There are also people who have gluten sensitivity, where eating gluten can cause uncomfortable symptoms but doesn’t lead to intestinal damage like in celiac disease.

People who need to follow a gluten-free diet have to avoid foods that contain gluten. This includes obvious sources like bread, pasta, and pastries, but gluten can also be hidden in things like sauces, dressings, and processed foods. Reading food labels is important to ensure a product is truly gluten-free.

It’s essential for individuals following a gluten-free diet to get all the necessary nutrients their body needs. This can be done by consuming naturally gluten-free foods like fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, and certain grains like rice and quinoa. Additionally, there are many gluten-free products available, such as bread, cookies, and pasta, made with alternative flours like rice flour or almond flour.