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Gluten Free Baking For the Holidays

Gluten-allergy and Gluten Intolerance is a Wheat-related Disorder

Gluten-Free Baking Week is observed each year annually the week before Christmas, this year on December 17th – 23rd. So we at WilcoWellness decided to help those who deal with gluten allergies with a little guide to a way you can still savor yummy holiday treats. Also, to learn more about the 411 on gluten.

Not a Gluten (eating) Mouse Stirs in this House

‘Twas the week before Christmas, when all through the house…Not a creature was gluten, not even the (crumbs are eaten by) a mouse. Okay, that was a long stretch to make a rhyme. However, Symptoms for a person who is gluten intolerant can include anywhere from pain in the belly to nausea and diarrhea after eating foods that contain gluten, such as wheat and rye.

What is gluten?

Typically found in wheat, gluten is a type of protein that helps food hold its shape.

  • Wheat: Foods like bread, baked goods, pasta noodles, and salad dressings contain wheat.
  • Barley: syrups, food coloring, beer, brewer’s yeast, and malt contain grain.
  • Rye: Cereals, rye bread, and rye beer contain rye.
  • Triticale: Pasta, bread, and cereals contain a new grain called triticale, which is a cross between rye and wheat. Also found in oats.

Read more from Celiac Disease Foundation about “What is Gluten?”

What are gluten-intolerant symptoms?

When gluten causes an immune response, it’s called a ‘gluten allergy.’ Bloating, belly pain, diarrhea, nausea, feeling fatigued are all symptoms of having a gluten-intolerant. You may also find these less common symptoms: anxiety, confusion, numbness, joint pain, and stomach pain.

If you are having any of the above symptoms, please seek out medical advice from your physician. Severe belly pain is an emergency and should be looked at right away.

Scientist say

Doctors will diagnose a gluten intolerance by ruling out more severe diseases. She or he will want to investigate your signs and symptoms, take a history of your gut health, and analyze why a gluten intolerance could be to blame for symptoms. A biopsy and blood test may also occur to rule out Celiac Disease.

I’m Gluten-Intolerant, now what?

Living with an intolerance to gluten can be a challenge. Avoiding foods with wheat and gluten – like pasta, bread, wheat biscuits, and some seasonings – will help lower your symptoms and chances of spiking a flair up. At the Farmer’s Market, you’ll be able to find a wide variety of gluten-free products to enjoy.

But, what about the holiday season…

  • Enjoy these fun gluten facts and Gluten-Free Baking Recipes by throwing on your holiday apron and pump up Michael Buble’s Holiday Playlist.

 

You can easily substitute Apples or blueberries into this recipe. Research allrecipes.com for more information

Allergies happen to everyone. This does not have to ruin a holiday, just be wise and more creative. Work the brain a little and enjoy your favorite treats without all the tummy discomfort. Happy Baking!