Do you feel sick after eating a homemade roll, a patty, or a piece of bread from the store? Maybe you get a rash, an upset stomach, or difficulty breathing? If so, you may have a wheat allergy , which is common among many people. But many people confuse this condition with something else. That is 'gluten sensitivity'. Although these two may seem like one thing, they are actually two different conditions. So let's get to know this exactly today.
Is 'Gluten-Free' the same as 'Wheat-Free'?
This is the biggest question that many people have. Simply put, the answer is 'no' . Don't assume that a product is 'Wheat-Free' just because it says 'Gluten-Free'.
Think about it this way. Gluten is a type of protein. It's found in wheat grains. But it's not just wheat that contains gluten, but other grains like barley and rye also contain gluten.
Now, look, even though some bakery products are labeled " gluten- free," they are actually made with something called "wheat starch." This involves removing only the protein called gluten from wheat flour. However, the other components of wheat may still be present in that flour. If you have a wheat allergy, this wheat starch can be harmful to your body, even though it is gluten-free.
So, when you buy something from the store, read the ingredients list carefully. Especially look for the words "Contains wheat". This is very important to protect your health.
So what can you eat instead of wheat?
Don't worry if you can't eat wheat. There are many delicious, nutritious grains you can use instead. But remember, before adding any new items to your diet, you should definitely talk to your doctor and get advice. Everyone's allergies are different.
The table below shows some options you can try.
| Alternative Grain | A brief introduction |
|---|---|
| Amaranth | A nutritious, small seed. |
| Arrowroot | Used to thicken soups and sauces. |
| Buckwheat | Despite having "wheat" in its name, this is not a type of wheat. |
| Corn | Cornmeal is commonly known as cornflour. |
| Millet | In our country, kurakkan is easily found as flour. |
| Oats | Choose oats that are certified "wheat-free." |
| Quinoa (คิน�ย) | A grain with a very high protein content. |
| Rice | Rice flour is one of the best substitutes for wheat flour. |
| Tapioca | Tapioca flour is used for bakery products. |
| Barley and Rye | These contain gluten. But if you only have a pure wheat allergy , these may be appropriate with your doctor's approval. Again, never try anything without asking your doctor. |
Things you can use instead of wheat in the kitchen
Avoiding wheat-containing foods while you're at it can seem like a challenge, but there are some very simple solutions .
| Food containing wheat | Possible substitutes |
|---|---|
| Wheat Flour | Rice flour, corn flour, soy flour, cassava flour, potato flour. (When making things like cakes, keep in mind that these types of flour do not rise like wheat flour.) |
| Noodles / Pasta | There are now "wheat-free" noodles and pastas on the market made from rice, corn, or other grains. |
| Breadcrumbs | You can use crushed cornflakes, crushed "wheat-free" crackers, or cornmeal to coat cutlets and meatloaf. |
| To thicken sauces/gravy (Thickeners) | Add a little cornstarch or rice flour. |
| Beer | Some recipes call for beer, but you can substitute it with apple juice or a little wine. |
Be careful when eating out.
If you're eating at a restaurant, never forget to inform the staff about your wheat allergy. Ask clearly, "I'm allergic to wheat, so can you make the food without things like wheat flour and breadcrumbs?" It's very important for your safety.
Although living with a wheat allergy can be a bit difficult, with the right knowledge and planning, you can enjoy delicious meals without any problems.
Take-Home Message
- Wheat Allergy and Gluten Sensitivity are two conditions.
- Just because a food you buy from a store has a 'Gluten-Free' label does not mean it is 'Wheat-Free'. Always read the ingredient list carefully.
- There are many delicious, healthy alternatives to wheat that you can use, such as rice, corn, and millet.
- Before making any major changes to your diet or trying a new grain, be sure to consult your doctor .
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