Convenient Gluten Free Shopping Online

By Patty Goff


Gluten is the substance that gives food like bread its elasticity and texture. Unfortunately, many people today have discovered that they are sensitive to this substance. Eating foods containing this substance can even be life threatening to some of these people. Fortunately, many food distributors are responding to the need for suitable products. Gluten free shopping online is an option available today that can make a big difference. Retailers offer hundreds of products with new items being added daily.

This substance to be avoided is what gives foods like breads their texture and elasticity. Many people consider it a real deprivation to have to do without it. However, they are forced to do so as when they do consume it, it triggers off an autoimmune reaction causing problems in the small intestine. Proper absorption of nutrients is affected and this in turn causes many kinds of health problems.

A wide variety of foods have to be avoided such as oats, wheat, barley and rye. This means that products made from these ingredients are off the menu. Some people battle to find substitutes for these foods but there are in fact many suitable ones. A satisfying breakfast may consist of corn grits or creamy rice topped with berries or nuts and raisins. A nutritious lunch is plain rice cakes topped with tuna or avocado.

Rice, legumes, nuts, seeds and tubers can all be turned into flour. These flours all have different qualities, some being lighter like those made from tapioca, some being medium weight like those made from sorghum and heavier ones made from quinoa, nuts, millet and legumes. Flours may be combined to create mixes suitable for baking various products like pancakes, biscuits or breads.

Some stores focus on selling raw ingredients while others specialize in baked goods and prepared foods. Many baking and pancake mixes can be purchased, making food preparation that much easier. From small specialist suppliers to large supermarkets and even a mall devoted to gluten-free products are found online.

It is hard for those starting on such a diet to know what foods to avoid. Reading labels is essential as supplementary ingredients used for thickening often contain wheat. Even some yoghurt contains wheat starch thickening. This is when stores specializing in gluten-free products are most helpful. Reading blogs is also useful for newcomers to this way of eating as they can pick up advice, tips and recipes from those with more experience.

Doctors, dieticians and chefs may all be part of the consultation process in the formulation of products. They have to make absolutely sure that no harmful ingredients are used and that what is provided will benefit the health of the customers. Many websites offer education and inspiration for people who have to eat this way.

People may think that these products are expensive. This is not true as they range in price from basics for reasonable prices to more exotic foods that may be more expensive. Another advantage is that the range of products is vast and is added to consistently so there is plenty of choice. Discounts and coupons offer more savings. With the range of products available, there is no need for people whose diets are restricted to feel deprived.




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