List of Gluten Free Grains
If you are one of the millions of people who suffer from a gluten sensitivity, or if you just want to avoid
gluten in general, you might think that bread and other grain-based foods have to be eliminated from your menu. The fact is that there are quite a few grains that are actually gluten free. The following are some excellent examples that will allow you to enjoy the great benefits of grains, without the gluten.
Montina
Native Americans have enjoyed Montina for many years, and today is enjoyed by many other people. It comes from Indian rice grass and is a grain that is extremely high in protein (17 grams). One of the best things about this type of grain is that it has a taste that is quite similar to wheat, which many people desire when giving up gluten.
Amaranth
Amaranth was initially enjoyed by the Aztecs and has spread to most parts of the world today. It is not nearly as common as some of the other options, but it has a very pleasant taste to it. It is high in protein, B vitamins, calcium, iron, and other essential nutrients. If you are looking for a healthy alternative to wheat, this is a good place to start.
Oats
Most people have eaten oats before, and may even have them in their home already. Oats are one of the most popular types of grains, which make them a great option for people looking for an easy to find gluten free grain. Whether you use it for cooking, or just eat it as oatmeal, this is a good option for many people.
Sorghum
Sorghum is a nutrient dense grain that many people enjoy. Unlike most other grains, it is most often consumed as a porridge rather than cooked into a bread or cereal. It is loaded with fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients. Many people say the taste takes a little getting used to but isn’t bad at all.
Teff
Teff is an excellent grain for those who are looking to add calcium to their diet as it has 123 mg in each serving. It also has plenty of vitamin C. The teff seed is extremely small and can’t be refined down, which many people like since it is less processed than most others. Teff can also grow in many climates that other grains cannot, which is important in some parts of the world.
Buckwheat
Most people have heard of buckwheat, even if they have not tried it. Many people mistakenly assume it has gluten in it because the name contains ‘wheat’ but that is not the case. Buckwheat is rich in flavonoids, which provide many health benefits. It has also been linked to a healthy cardiovascular system. Overall, this is one of the more readily available grains, which makes it a great option for many people.
Cornmeal
Cornmeal is often looked down upon by health conscience people because it can be used as a sweetener, and it is typically genetically modified. If you can find organic, GMO-free cornmeal, it can be quite healthy. It has lots of nutrients such as vitamin B-6, zinc, magnesium, and more. It is also relatively easy to cook with. This is another one of those grains that many people have likely tried or already have in their homes, which makes it a perfect place to start for those looking to go gluten free.
Millet
Millet is considered by many to have the best flavor of all the gluten free grains (though this is, of course, very subjective). The taste is somewhat sweet and nutty, which most people find quite pleasant. Another perk to choosing millet is that it is very easy to digest, and almost nobody is allergic to it. Also, it is one of the only grains that is alkalizing to the body rather than acidic.
Rice
Rice is the most commonly consumed grain in the world, with billions of people consuming it every day. There are many ways you can prepare rice, which makes this a very flexible grain. When shopping, make sure to look for brown rice as it has far more nutrients than white rice. Both of them, however, are good examples of gluten free grains.
Popcorn
That’s right! Popcorn is a grain! While you are not likely to grind it up and make it into a loaf of bread, it is still very enjoyable. Of course, you want to choose natural popcorn that is popped using an air popper or other healthy option. Microwave popcorn (and most movie popcorn) is far from healthy. This food makes a delicious snack, and can be an excellent way to get the grains you need.
Try them All
All of these gluten free grains will provide you with great nutritional benefits, and they taste great too. While giving up wheat (and gluten in general) is tough, it does not have to cause you to give up many of your favorite grain-based foods. Just take some time try each of the gluten-free grains listed above, and make your favorite dishes. You are sure to find some options you love.
