Gluten
Gluten is a protein that is common in the diets of U.S. consumers. It is found in wheat, barley,rye, and their grain relatives. Gluten is what helps breadexpand while the dough isrising and hold its shapewhile it’s baking and afterit cools. It’s also whatmakes bread chewy.
Gluten as Part of a Healthy Diet
Grains, both whole and enriched, play a vital role in a healthy diet. One benefit is that they’re great sources of antioxidants, fiber, B vitamins, vitamin E, magnesium, iron, folic acid, and other vitamins and minerals. The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (USDA & USDHHS, 2010) recommend that an average adult consume six 1-ounce portions of grain a day, with at least half of those in the form of whole grains. The complex carbohydrates found in grains are naturally low in fat, cholesterol and sodium, and they provide energy.
Author: Dawn Earnesty, Extension Educator, Michigan State University Extension; Sheilah Hebert, Extension Educator, Michigan State University Extension (07/15/2014)
Not Gluten Free, But Celiac Safe
Kansas wheat farmers are the only group supporting research into the identifying the exact DNA that causes a celiac reaction as well as the levels of reactivity in wheat varieties. The results, however, would be life-changing for the three million Americans with celiac disease. [Read more]
Other Resources
Gluten and Health: The Connection Between Gut Health, Food Sensitivities and Allergies
Wheat Belly - An analysis of selected statements and basic theses of the book
