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HOW-TO: Go Gluten-Free

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Emerson chapter.

 

What is all the fuss about?

Celebrities like Miley Cyrus have been going “gluten-free” and dropping lb’s like its nothing. Gluten free products are popping up in grocery stores everywhere, and the diet has been talked about on many morning talk-shows. But, what is all of the fuss about, and how can you try this diet out for yourself? Read more to have all of your questions answered.

 

What is Gluten?

Gluten is a protein that is in grains like wheat, rye, barley, and triticale.

 

Why cut it OUT?

Some people are allergic to gluten, such as those with Celiac disease. Gluten causes inflammation in the small intestine for some people.

 

How you can do it on campus?

The gluten-free diet is a tough one, but its good to hear that there are many foods that are gluten free that you already eat! The Dining Hall has even introduced some exclusively gluten-free sections! If you are seriously considering this diet consult a doctor or nutritionist (vitamin deficiency is a risk) especially if you think you may have an allergy to gluten. Here is the short list of foods you can and can’t eat:

 

Approved Food:

  • Beans, seeds, nuts in their natural, unprocessed form
  • Eggs
  • meats, fish and poultry (not breaded, batter-coated or marinated)
  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Most dairy products

 

Don’t Eat anything containing:

  • Barley (malt)
  • Rye
  • Triticale (a cross between wheat and rye)
  • Wheat

 

Such As:

Beer, breads, cakes and pies, candies, cereals, cookies and crackers, croutons, French fries, gravies, imitation meat or seafood, Matzo, pastas, processed luncheon meats, salad dressings, sauces (including soy sauce), seasoned rice mixes, seasoned snack foods (such as potato and tortilla chips), self-basting poultry, soups and soup bases, vegetables in sauce

 

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gluten-free-diet/my01140

 

Erin is now a senior at Emerson College in Boston, MA pursuing a degree in Print & Multimedia journalism. Originally from West Orange, New Jersey, Erin enjoys fashion, baking, hiking, traveling, and sharks. She is currently Co-Campus Correspondent of Emerson's Her Campus branch, and recently worked as an Editorial/Web Production intern and freelancer for Details.com at Conde Nast in New York City. Follow her on Twitter @appenzo.