A protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, gluten creates health problems for those who are intolerant or have celiac disease. If you are sensitive to this indigestible protein, learn what benefits you’ll enjoy when you patronize gluten-free cafes and otherwise eliminate gluten from your diet.

What You Need to Know About Going Gluten-Free

Benefits

If your body can’t digest gluten, saying no to foods containing the protein reduces, if not eradicates, related symptoms such as gastrointestinal discomfort and bloating. Your GI tract will resume nutrient absorption activities instead of becoming inflamed and irritated, which avoids tract lining damage and relieves symptoms of Irritable Bowel Disease (IBS).

Eating at gluten-free cafes and preparing gluten-free dishes at home increases your energy level because your gastrointestinal system starts functioning normally and can absorb nutrients from energizing foods such as fruits and vegetables. You may lose weight, not only because you have more energy to work out, but because you’re no longer consuming wheat-based products that can contribute to weight gain.

Tips For Getting Started

Review ingredient labels to ensure you aren’t consuming gluten or triticale, a grain with wheat and rye properties. Create lists of foods you can and cannot consume to place on your refrigerator as helpful reminders.

Off-limit foods include bread, pasta, grains such as couscous, and farina. Increase your consumption of fruits and vegetables, especially if you want to lose weight—both are high in fiber and low in calories.

Should you want to consume gluten-free versions of foods such as cereals, crackers, and pasta, look for products fortified with vitamins to avoid nutritional deficiencies. You may want to increase your supplement intake to avoid health problems. Take vitamin B to reduce fatigue and maintain your fiber consumption to avoid constipation and other health issues.

Wheat contains fiber, so look for gluten-free, fiber-rich alternatives such as quinoa, brown rice, and beans in addition to fruits and vegetables. 

Enjoy healthy gluten-free foods at Hello Juice & Smoothies. The gluten-free cafe has served residents throughout the St. Louis, MO metro area since 2018, offering healthy food delivery services in addition to a range of cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and smoothie bowls. Call (314) 376-4135 today to discuss subscription options or visit the gluten-free cafe online to review the menu. Get the latest cafe updates on Facebook.