If you’re looking to change your lifestyle and eat healthier, creating a gluten-free diet could be a good start. Gluten is a protein that’s found in wheat, rye, and barley that can be harmful to some people’s health.
Being diagnosed with celiac disease or gluten intolerance means that your body cannot tolerate gluten. Even if you don’t have any condition, you could be sensitive to gluten and suffer from digestive discomfort, anemia, or fatigue.
Whether you’re trying to go gluten-free or just looking to cut back a little, there are several foods you should avoid. Here’s a list of the top 10 gluten-filled foods to avoid for a healthier diet:.
Bread and baked goods
Gluten is often found in bread, muffins, scones, and other baked goods. These can be tough to give up, but you can find plenty of gluten-free alternatives in most grocery stores to help with the cravings.
Cereal and granola
Most cereals and granolas contain gluten. Many brands have gluten-free options that you can find in the grocery store. Be sure to check the label to ensure that the product is gluten-free.
Pasta
Pasta is usually made from wheat, which contains gluten. Fortunately, there are gluten-free pastas available in most grocery stores that you can substitute. Some brands even make pasta from quinoa or brown rice.
Soy sauce
Many soy sauces contain wheat and gluten. You can find gluten-free soy sauce in some grocery stores, or you can use alternative sauces like coconut aminos or tamari sauce.
Beer
Most beers contain barley, which contains gluten. Gluten-free beers are available, but you’ll need to check the label to ensure they are truly gluten-free.
Pizza and pasta sauces
Many pre-made pizza and pasta sauces contain gluten, so it’s best to make your own or find a gluten-free version in the grocery store.
Soup
Soups often contain wheat flour as a thickener or for flavor. Look for gluten-free soups or make your own with gluten-free ingredients.
Sausage and processed meats
Processed meats like sausage often include fillers and additives that contain gluten. Be sure to check the label, or better yet, opt for fresh meats instead of processed ones.
Sweets and desserts
Most baked goods, candies, and desserts contain wheat flour and gluten. You can still enjoy sweets in a gluten-free diet by making your own or finding gluten-free options at the store.
Certain grains and flours
Grains like wheat, rye, and barley contain gluten, as do flours made from these grains. Look for flours made from alternative sources like almond, coconut, or rice flour.
Making the switch to a gluten-free diet can be challenging, but it can be done. Fortunately, with the growing popularity of gluten-free diets, there are more and more options available in the grocery store.
By avoiding these gluten-filled foods, you can pave the way to a healthier and happier lifestyle.