Ever wondered why so many street food stalls now offer that trendy gluten-free option? Look around, and see the fruity options. They’re everywhere. In their natural splendour, fruits are nature’s candy – vibrant, sweet, and, most importantly, gluten-free.
They embody the freshness and simplicity many seek in a gluten-free diet, providing taste and an array of nutrients without any gluten strings attached. It’s like giving your body a splash of colour and good health without the fuss of deciphering complex food labels. Now that’s food for thought.
Imagine cherries, oranges, lemons, and watermelons so utterly delectable you’d wish to snag them for your fruit bowl. An explosion of colour reminiscent of what you will see in Caravaggio’s Still Life Basket of Fruit, and even colourful games like Ninja Fruit and Fruit Shop slots, but the taste is very real.
So, What’s the Deal with Gluten?
Imagine gluten as that uninvited party guest that some of us can’t handle. It’s a sneaky protein lurking in grains like wheat, barley, rye, and this cool hybrid called triticale. Originating from our agricultural past, it’s been part of our diet for ages.
Yet, it’s only recently that we’ve recognized its effects. And while many folks break bread with gluten with no fuss, relishing its elasticity in doughs and kinds of pasta, for others, it can be the catalyst for tummy turmoil or even some severe health issues.
Why Go Gluten-Free?
For some, the choice is absolutely clear:
- Wheat allergy:Â This is where the body mistakes gluten for that notorious bad guy, causing symptoms like breathing troubles.
- Gluten sensitivity: This is gluten’s sneaky side. Without the intestine drama, it gives some of the same troubles as celiac, like bloating or even a foggy brain.
- Celiac disease: Think of it as gluten’s arch-nemesis. In this scenario, gluten goes all Terminator on us and attacks the small intestine, making nutrient absorption a big no-no.
- Gluten ataxia:Â Gluten takes a jab at the nerves, making muscle movements a chore.
And for others, it’s a lifestyle choice, hoping for a health boost or an energy kick.
But remember, going gluten-free doesn’t just mean cutting out foods. It can also change your fibre intake, vitamins, and other essentials. Always good to have a chat with a food guru if you’re diving into this diet. Enjoy the freshness and goodness of natural fruity flavours!
Shopping Gluten-Free: Label Lingo 🏷️
Labels can be trickier than a Rubik’s cube! When hunting for gluten-free snacks:
- Look out for foods labelled as “gluten-free.” Thanks to FDA rules, they must have less than 20 parts per million of gluten.
- Booze Alert! Alcoholic drinks made from naturally gluten-free ingredients can sport the gluten-free badge. But they can’t guarantee complete absence if it’s from a gluten-containing grain.
And a golden rule: ALWAYS read food labels. Sometimes gluten hides in the most unexpected places.
A Few No-No’s For The Gluten-Free Squad
What about processed foods and gluten? They go together like peanut butter and jelly. Wheat gluten is often snuck in as a thickener, flavour, or colour enhancer. If you’re on team gluten-free, keep those eyes peeled on those labels!
Wrapping It Up! 
Whether you’re gluten-free out of choice or necessity, the street food scene has something mouth-watering for everyone. Dive in, explore, and remember – always read the labels!
