Diets for Coeliacs

People who suffer from celiac disease have an intolerance to gluten. Ingesting even a small amount of gluten can cause serious damage to the digestive system. According to the Celiac Disease Foundation, bloating, diarrhea and abdominal pain are just some of the symptoms of gluten intolerance, along with behavioral changes such as irritability and bone and joint pain. People with celiac disease must adhere to a strict gluten-free diet.

Approved Foods

• Meat, fish and poultry are gluten free.

  The key to living with celiac disease is maintaining a gluten-free diet. While many grains and flours contain gluten, there are some grains that can still be enjoyed by someone diagnosed with celiac disease. According to the Quick Start Diet Guide published by the Celiac Disease Foundation, corn, rice, soy, buckwheat and beans are just a few of the grains or flours that can be consumed.

  In addition, fruits and vegetables can be consumed, as well as most dairy products. Meat, poultry, and fish are also gluten free.

Foods Containing Gluten

• Breads made from wheat should not be consumed.

  The Quick Start Guide notes that wheat, semolina, barley and rye are all grains that contain gluten and must be prohibited from a celiac's diet. Breads, crackers, including graham crackers, and many cereals must be avoided.

Foods to Research

• Check the label of herbal supplements for gluten.

  There are some foods, many of them packaged foods, which may contain gluten. The Quick Start Guide suggests checking the ingredients of such foods as stuffing, energy bars and cereals. Always use caution before using packaged sauces or gravies, including soy sauce. Though fresh meat and poultry do not contain gluten, the processed versions of these meats, such as lunch meats, may. In addition, check the ingredient label on vitamins and herbal supplements before taking. Many gluten-free varieties of foods are available in your grocery store. Note that foods that are labelled as wheat free are not necessarily gluten free.