DEAR DR. GOTT: If something is gluten-free, does that mean it is also flourless?
DEAR READER: No. Gluten is a protein found in several common types of grains, including wheat, rye and barley. If a product is gluten-free, that simply means that the product is not made with grains and flours that contain gluten.
To confuse the issue, some gluten-free products are flourless and others are made with flour, such as rice or corn flours that do not contain the protein.
People with a gluten sensitivity or gluten allergy must maintain a strict diet that avoids all foods containing the protein because it can cause intestinal damage and troublesome symptoms, such as abdominal pain, pressure, bloating, diarrhea and constipation. By removing the protein from the diet, the body can often repair most or all of the damage as long as it is avoided.
People who are following my no-flour, no-sugar diet should remain vigilant about gluten-free products because they may contain sugar and other types of flour. Once the weight goal is achieved and if a person wishes to add a few foods that contain flour and/or sugar back into the diet, gluten-free products are an excellent choice.
To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Losing Weight: An Introduction to the No Flour, No Sugar Diet.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.
Readers may also be interested in purchasing my books. “Dr. Gott’s No Flour, No Sugar Diet” and “Dr. Gott’s No Flour, No Sugar Cook Book” are available in most bookstores or online.
