What’s the big deal with gluten?
You may have noticed that there are some items in stores that have the phrase “gluten-free” on it.
In the last couple of years, this phrase has become mainstream and is even claimed as a popular diet fad – but for those who are unfamiliar with what this all means, what’s the big deal with gluten? How did it gain all the popularity and what does gluten do?
Gluten is a group of proteins, called prolamins and glutelins, which occur with starch in the endosperm of various cereal grains. In Latin, gluten means “glue”, which makes the dough elastic and gives bread the ability to rise when baked. It gives the food a chewy, satisfying texture.
Most people tolerate gluten fine but it can cause problems for people with certain health conditions like celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, wheat allergy, and some other diseases.
Gluten can be in foods that don't have that chewy texture, so that's why there are big labels that declare when the food item is gluten-free. Here is a list of foods that contain gluten and foods that don't.
Make sure to speak with your doctor to see if you feel the need to avoid gluten in your diet. Watch the video below to see what it is all about, and why is it suddenly popular!
