Gluten facts for kids
Gluten (pronounced gloot-en) is a natural mix of two proteins, called gliadin and glutenin. You can find these proteins in the seeds of certain grains, like wheat, rye, and barley. Gliadin and glutenin make up about 80% of the protein in wheat seeds.
These proteins don't dissolve in water. This means you can get them by washing away the starch from the grain. Gluten is a very important source of protein in food worldwide. It's found in foods made directly from grains, and it's also added to other foods that need more protein.
What is Gluten and Where is it Found?
Gluten is like a sticky, elastic substance. It gives dough its stretchy texture and helps bread rise. Think of it as the "glue" that holds many baked goods together.
You'll find gluten in many common foods. These include bread, pasta, pizza, and most baked goods made from wheat flour. It's also in some sauces, soups, and even some candies. Food companies sometimes add gluten to products to improve their texture or add protein.
Gluten and Celiac Disease
Some people have a special sensitivity to gluten. This condition is called coeliac disease (or celiac disease in North America). When people with celiac disease eat foods that contain gluten, their bodies react badly.
This reaction can cause problems like stomach cramps, bloating, gas, and diarrhoea. They might also get skin rashes. For people with celiac disease, eating gluten can damage their small intestine, making it hard for their body to absorb important nutrients from food. If someone has celiac disease, they need to follow a strict gluten-free diet to stay healthy.
Images for kids
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Examples of sources of gluten (clockwise from top): wheat as flour, spelt, barley, and rye as rolled flakes
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Bread produced from wheat grains contains gluten
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Gluten is often used in imitation meats (such as this mock duck) to provide supplemental protein and in vegetarian diets
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Medical animation still showing flattened intestinal villi.
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See also
In Spanish: Gluten para niños
