Can you imagine what it would be like to give us delicious cupcakes, brownies, and cakes?
Sounds awful to me! Unfortunately people who are allergic to gluten must do this. So what exactly is this gluten I speak of? Gluten is a protein found in the grains of wheat, rye, and barley (1). Gluten is what helps dough rise and makes it chewy and well…delicious. You may not know it but most of us love gluten because it is what makes pizza, cupcakes, and fresh bread taste so amazing.
Those who are highly allergic to gluten are called “true celiacs” and are so sensitive to gluten that even a small amount can make them very sick (2). For a long time scientist did not understand this rare disease. Now, we know that its because of gluten that these people suffer so much. Gluten damages the lining of the small intestines for those suffering from celiacs. This can then can lead to health problems and even the risk of some cancers (2). Gluten is no joke!
Other people are what we call “gluten sensitive” which pretty much means they get bad diarrhea and abdominal cramping from consuming gluten. Still not fun! But it can be avoided by not eating anything with gluten in it. Although more and more restaurants are catering to gluten intolerance, there is still many food items that contain gluten. Some unexpected places you can find gluten: some chocolates, imitation crab, deli meats, soy sauce, and even some kinds of toothpaste.
I would like to dedicate this post to all my dear friends suffering from gluten intolerance. While I was doing some research I found a delicious little bakery that caters to the gluten free crowd. Its actually called Gluten Free Cutie (how adorable right?). All the pictures on today’s post I took while I visited the bakery. Everything, I mean everything, they sell at this bakery is 100% gluten free, artificial dye free, egg free, soy free, peanut free, and tree nut free. And not to mention everything is delicious!
One of the bakers told me that they are now expanding and making more than just cupcakes. They are introducing gluten free pizzas, pop cakes, whoopie pies, breads, and pies. Definitely worth trying!