Naturally Gluten Free Foods

Gluten is the protein part of grains like wheat, rye, barley. Some people an intolerance to gluten and therefore need to be on gluten-free diets. Fortunately, there are a diverse mix of naturally gluten free foods that still allow people to get enough vital nutrients and vitamins when they cannot eat wheat-based foods.

Grains

Many grains are naturally gluten-free foods. A concern among people who practice gluten-free diets is replacing the nutrients and fiber lost through the inability to eat wheat. Choose gains like brown rice, amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat, cornmeal and oats. Pick whole grain versions over processed, refined versions of these grains in order to get more fiber, vitamins and nutrients. Avoid all traditional breads, bagels, crackers and packaged products unless the package specifically states that the food is made from gluten-free ingredients.

Fruits and Vegetables

All fruits and vegetables are naturally gluten-free foods. Choose fruits like apples, bananas, oranges, strawberries, pears, peaches, watermelon, kiwi, pineapple, melon, blueberries and raspberries. Choose vegetables like lettuce, carrots, broccoli, tomatoes, avocados, artichokes, onions, celery, kale and spinach. Be wary of any vegetables that come packaged or have a breaded coating. Always read the nutrition label and ensure packaged fruits and vegetables contain no gluten-based ingredients. Flavor foods with fresh herbs and spices, which are naturally gluten free and are a great way to lower your salt intake as well.

Meats and Cheeses

Most meats and cheeses are naturally gluten free foods. It's important to check the label on processed and packages meats and cheeses to ensure the product was not manufactured in a facility that contains wheat-based products. You can check on the website of most food manufacturers to ensure their products are gluten free. Be careful when eating any meats or fish that contain breading. Choose meats like turkey, chicken, beef and fish. Choose cheeses like cheddar, colby, Swiss, blue cheese, Parmesan, mozzarella and Gorgonzola.

Nuts and Legumes

The majority of nuts, seeds and legumes are naturally gluten free foods, with the exception of packaged products like baked beans, which often have gluten-based sauces. Choose nuts like almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds and pistachios. Choose legumes like peas, garbanzo beans, lentils, black beans, navy beans, pinto beans and kidney beans.