If you’re celiac, you likely already know these, but if you’re just someone trying to stay away from gluten for other reasons, these sneaky foods might come as a surprise to you. Just when you thought you were dodging those pesky wheat proteins, they pop up in the most unexpected places. Gluten is often lurking where you’d least expect it so reading labels and knowing the synonyms for it is important.
Soy Sauce
That salty splash in your stir-fry? Yep, soy sauce often contains wheat as a stabilizer. It’s surprising how many Asian dishes can be compromised. Stick to tamari for a gluten-free option and keep your fried rice and sushi nights worry-free.
Imitation Crab Meat
Your favorite California roll might be hiding gluten. Imitation crab, or “krab,” often contains wheat to bind the fish together. For a gluten-free sushi experience, go for real crab or double-check the ingredients next time you sushi it up!
Salad Dressings
Who knew a healthy salad could be a gluten bomb? Many store-bought dressings use wheat as a thickener or stabilizer. To ensure your salad stays safe, try DIY-ing your dressing or scrutinize the bottle before you drizzle it on those greens.
Processed Meats
That deli turkey might have more than just meat. Some processed meats use fillers like wheat or barley to bulk up the product. Time to become a label detective at the deli counter or stick to freshly sliced, unprocessed options.
Gravy and Sauces
Grandma’s gravy might have a gluten twist. Flour is a common thickener for gravies and sauces, making your Sunday roast not so gluten-friendly. Swap it out with cornstarch or arrowroot powder, or look for gluten-free recipes to keep the tradition alive.
Vegetable Broth
Even your veggie broth can be a gluten culprit. Some brands use wheat as a flavor enhancer or stabilizer, sneaking gluten into your soups and stews. Check the ingredients list or make your own broth at home to keep things gluten-free.
Ice Cream
A sweet betrayal! Some ice creams use gluten as a stabilizer or thickener, especially those with cookie or cake mix-ins. Stick to simple flavors like vanilla or chocolate, or look for brands that proudly wave the gluten-free flag to keep your dessert safe.
French Fries
Not all fries are safe! Some restaurants coat their fries with a flour mixture before frying to give them that extra crunch. Always ask if their fries are just potatoes and oil or if they’ve had a floury makeover.
Spice Mixes
That taco seasoning might be hiding gluten. Some pre-made spice mixes use wheat flour as an anti-caking agent. Make your own spice blend at home to keep your tacos gluten-free and packed with pure flavor, minus the hidden gluten.
Chewing Gum
Fresh breath with a side of gluten? Some chewing gums use wheat-based ingredients as binders or to add texture. Look for gluten-free gum brands to keep your chewing worry-free and your breath fresh.
Licorice
Your movie night treat might have a gluten twist. Traditional licorice often contains wheat flour to give it that chewy texture. Swap to gluten-free versions or try other candy favorites like gummy bears or chocolates that are naturally gluten-free.
Instant Coffee
That quick caffeine fix might come with gluten. Some instant coffees use gluten-based ingredients for flavoring or as fillers. Opt for brewed coffee or certified gluten-free instant coffee to stay on the safe side and enjoy your morning cup without worry.
21 Gluten-Free Breads That Don’t Taste Like Cardboard
Finding gluten-free bread that doesn’t taste like cardboard can be tough. Here are 25 amazing recipes that prove gluten-free bread can be just as tasty, if not better, than the regular stuff. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, these recipes will make you forget you ever missed gluten.
Read it Here: 21 Gluten-Free Breads That Don’t Taste Like Cardboard
11 Sneaky Swaps To Make Comfort Food Healthier Without Anyone Knowing
We all love comfort food, but sometimes it’s nice to make it a bit healthier without losing that satisfying taste. Luckily, there are some easy swaps and tricks that can lighten up your favorite dishes without anyone noticing. We promise, your mashed potatoes will still taste great and your waistline will thank you if you try some of these next time around.
Read it Here: 11 Sneaky Swaps To Make Comfort Food Healthier Without Anyone Knowing
*Select images provided by Depositphotos.
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
