Celiac Foods to Avoid

The University of Maryland Center for Celiac Research in Baltimore estimates that roughly one out of every 150 Americans has celiac disease. Although there is no cure for the autoimmune disorder, it can be managed with a gluten-free diet. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. When someone with celiac disease eats a food containing gluten, his immune system reacts negatively and causes damage to the area of the small intestine that absorbs vital nutrients.

Wheat, Barley, Rye

Pizza, bread, pasta and other foods made with wheat, barley and rye should definitely be avoided on a celiac diet. This includes all foods like cookies and cakes that are made with wheat-based flours like white flour, spelt flour, graham flour or kamut flour. Cereals made with wheat bran, wheat germ or rye should also be avoided. It's important to note that foods that are labeled "wheat free" do not necessarily mean gluten free.

Processed Foods

Gluten can be found in processed founds including cold cuts, hot dogs, candy, cheeses, prepared salad dressing, ketchup and more. Look for hydrolyzed wheat protein and hydrolyzed vegetable protein on the label. These ingredients contain gluten and are used as a flavoring agents or binders. Use caution with common ingredients found in processed food like caramel coloring and modified food starch that can be made from either corn or wheat.

Beer

Almost all beer contains wheat, barley and rye, including stouts and ales. This also includes non-alcoholic beers like root beer. Wine and liquor tend to be made without these ingredients and are typically safer on a celiac diet.

Sauces and Seasonings

Many sauces like gravy and soy sauce use wheat as a thickening agent and contain processed or artificial ingredients. Some seasonings like those added to gluten-free potato chips can also include wheat.

Oats

In general, people with celiac disease should avoid oats, unless they are specifically labeled as "gluten free." According to the Mayo Clinic, doctors recommend staying away from oats as they can come into contact with wheat when they are grown or processed.