What is gluten?
Gluten is a protein that is found in grains such as wheat, rye, and barley. It is what gives dough its elasticity, allowing it to rise and create a chewy texture. For most people, gluten is harmless and even beneficial for their digestive system. However, for some people, consuming gluten can lead to a range of health issues, including celiac disease, gluten intolerance, and wheat allergy.
Who needs to avoid gluten products?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the consumption of gluten causes damage to the small intestine. This can lead to malabsorption of nutrients and a range of symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and fatigue. Gluten intolerance, also known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity, is a condition in which people experience similar symptoms to celiac disease without the intestinal damage. Wheat allergy is a less common condition in which the immune system reacts to the proteins found in wheat.
For people with celiac disease, gluten-free baked goods are essential as consuming even small amounts of gluten can cause damage to their small intestine. Additionally, people with gluten intolerance or wheat allergy may also need to avoid gluten to prevent symptoms. Gluten-free baked goods are made with alternative flours such as rice flour, almond flour, or potato flour. These flours do not contain gluten, and therefore do not cause the same reactions as wheat flour.
There are many myths surrounding gluten, and it is essential to understand the facts before making dietary choices.
Myth: Gluten-free is healthier for everyone.
Fact: Gluten-free does not necessarily mean healthier. Many gluten-free products are highly processed and contain more sugar and fat than their gluten-containing counterparts. If you do not have a medical condition that requires a gluten-free diet, there is no evidence to suggest that a gluten-free diet is healthier.
Myth: Gluten causes weight gain.
Fact: There is no evidence to suggest that gluten causes weight gain. People who lose weight on a gluten-free diet often do so because they are consuming fewer calories, not because they have eliminated gluten.
Myth: Gluten-free is necessary for athletic performance.
Fact: Unless you have a medical condition that requires a gluten-free diet, there is no evidence to suggest that eliminating gluten will improve athletic performance.
Myth: Gluten is harmful to everyone.
Fact: Gluten is not harmful to most people. For people with celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or wheat allergy, consuming gluten can cause health issues. However, for most people, gluten is harmless and even beneficial.
Our products are known for their simple flavors without the overwhelming sweetness of sugar or corn syrup. We only use the highest quality ingredients with no preservatives and or mixes. We choose to make perishable products without artificial preservatives or other ingredients because we believe in the principles of purity and freshness in food. Our products are always made from scratch, blending traditional artisan baking with innovative flavor combinations. To maintain their purity and freshness, we package our products individually.
Fine Sconehenge Baking Co.
1320 Flynn Rd Suite B
Camarillo, CA 93012
(805) 389-0033
www.finesconehengebakingco.com