What Is Gluten and How Does It Affect the Body?

If you’ve heard about gluten intolerance and gluten-free foods, you might have wondered: What exactly is gluten in food? Gluten is a group of proteins naturally found in wheat, barley, rye, and related grains. It’s what gives dough its stretch and chewy texture, making gluten an essential ingredient in many baked goods like bread and pizza crust.

This article will discuss where you can find gluten, why some people opt for a gluten-free diet, and how you can source reliable, gluten-free Sriracha hot sauce with authentic Thai ingredients and taste.

Where is Gluten Found?

Gluten is purely plant-based, derived from grains. Gluten can also be present in pasta and noodles, crackers and cereals, sauces like soy sauce and gravy, beer and malted beverages, and some processed meats and snacks. For anyone curious, gluten is not made of pork or any type of meat; however, gluten-containing ingredients may be included in processed meat products, so it’s always good to double-check ingredients.

What Does Gluten Do to Our Body?

For most people, gluten passes through the digestive system without causing trouble. If you don’t have a sensitivity, allergy, or autoimmune response, gluten is harmless. Whole grains, like whole wheat, can provide dietary fibre, B vitamins, and minerals like iron and magnesium. These contribute to heart and digestive health and provide long-lasting energy.

But for some individuals, gluten can cause some issues for those with:

Coeliac disease: An autoimmune condition where gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine, specifically, the villi, which are tiny projections that absorb nutrients from food. Over time, this damage can cause malabsorption of essential nutrients, chronic fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and anaemia. It can also cause bloating, gas, and diarrhoea, joint pain and bone loss, and delayed growth in children. Coeliac disease may go undiagnosed; the only treatment is a strict gluten-free diet to allow the intestine to heal.

Wheat allergy: Wheat allergy is a true allergic reaction involving the immune system, which can lead to rashes, breathing difficulties, and anaphylaxis in severe cases. Unlike coeliac or gluten sensitivity, wheat allergy can be triggered by other proteins in wheat, not just gluten.

Non-coeliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS): People without coeliac disease or wheat allergy may still react to gluten and feel unwell with symptoms like headaches, brain fog, stomach cramps, fatigue, mood swings, or joint aches. Unlike coeliac disease, NCGS doesn’t involve intestinal damage. The cause isn’t fully understood, but may be caused by accompanying compounds in gluten that irritate the gut or immune system.

Digestive discomfort: Others may not have a diagnosed condition but experience digestive discomfort and feel better when they reduce or remove gluten from their diet.

Is Gluten Bad for You?

Gluten itself isn’t harmful to the general population. Whole grains containing gluten can be a healthy source of fibre and nutrients. However, for those with intolerance or coeliac disease, ingesting gluten can lead to inflammation and digestive issues. Also, more people today are choosing gluten-free lifestyles to feel lighter, reduce bloating, and support their gut health. Some prefer to follow anti-inflammatory diets, while others choose gluten-free options to help manage autoimmune conditions.

Gluten-Free Sauces

Gluten can be found in not-so-obvious places. Many dipping sauces, condiments, marinades, and dressings contain gluten, especially products with ingredients like soy sauce, which is traditionally brewed with wheat or flour-based thickeners. If you’re avoiding gluten, watch out for products such as soy sauce, barbecue sauces, gravy mixes, marinades and dressings, teriyaki sauce, and oyster sauce. Always check the labels for the product ingredients before usage.

The good news is that Flying Goose offers a range of premium gluten-free sauces, so that you can enjoy bold flavours without the worry. Enjoy authentic Thai flavours without compromising your health and dietary needs. Made with real Thai chillies and fresh, natural ingredients, Flying Goose sauces are certified gluten-free and vegan. Our sauces come in various flavour profiles, from classic Sriracha sauce to mayo sauce, extra hot sauce, sweet chilli sauce, and much more. Explore Flying Goose’s range of Sriracha sauces today, a leading exporter in Thailand.