Gluten-free products have inundated our grocery shelves – cookies, baked goods, pastas, breads, sauces and our favourite staples. However, just because it’s gluten-free, is it good for you?
WHAT IS GLUTEN?
Gluten is a protein naturally found in most grains, including wheat, rye, barley and spelt, and for many people, gluten is difficult to break down, digest and assimilate. For those who suffer from Celiac disease, gluten-free diets are their mainstay, as their bodies adversely react to gluten through an autoimmune, inflammatory response that essentially shuts down the small intestine’s ability to absorb any nutrients. However, gluten-free diets have gained popularity among mainstream foodies due to the large number of people who suffer from gluten sensitivities or intolerances.
SYMPTOMS OF A GLUTEN-SENSITIVITY?
Many people can suffer from gluten sensitivities without even being aware. This intolerance to gluten may result in symptoms such as:
• fatigue • headaches • bloating
• eczema • brain fog • digestive upset
• irritability • muscle aches
IS GLUTEN THE CULPRIT?
If you think you might have a gluten sensitivity, try eliminating gluten entirely from your diet for 14 days. After the 14-day period, reintroduce gluten to your diet and keep notes on any changes in symptoms. If your symptoms dissipate during the elimination period and re-occur once it’s been reintroduced, chances are, gluten isn’t for you!
GOING GLUTEN FREE
Gluten isn’t limited to only grains. Gluten can also be found in many processed and packaged foods such as chips, processed meats, hot dogs, sausages, pre-made sauces, soups, soy sauce, alcohol, beer, soda pop, juice concentrates, chewing gum, candy and even some toothpastes.
Grains such as quinoa, rice, millet and buckwheat are completely gluten-free. You can find pastas, breads, flours and other baked goods using gluten-free grains that will leave you without the bloat.
Be mindful of what you are eating and what is actually inside your food. Just because something is gluten-free doesn’t necessarily make it good for you. Reducing processed foods and eating as naturally as possible will help you look and feel your best!
Quinoa Cookies
These are simple to make and loaded with protein, complex carbs and stress-busting B-Vitamins. And they are gluten-free!
1 Cup cooked quinoa (whole grain)
1 Cup uncooked quinoa flakes
1 Cup unsweetened, shredded coconut
4 large very ripe bananas
½ Cup coconut sugar (or maple syrup)
½ Cup dark, unsweetened chocolate chips (or raisins or walnuts)
1 tsp pure vanilla
1 pinch of salt
DIRECTIONS
Pre-heat oven to 380˚F (190˚C). In a large mixing bowl, mash bananas with a fork and add vanilla and coconut sugar. Add quinoa, coconut and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined. Stir in chocolate chips and/or raisins. Line baking sheet with parchment paper and drop batter onto cooking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool.
