What IS gluten? Learn About This Infamous Ingredient & How JB Hook's Accommodates
Gluten has become a hot topic in recent years, but many people don't know exactly what it is. For some, it's a dietary choice to try and improve their health, while for others it is an important lifestyle dictated by a serious health condition. JB Hook's is dedicated to serving you and we take all dietary concerns seriously. As the best restaurant at the Lake of the Ozarks, we take great care to prepare meals that are not only delicious but also safe for people with food allergies and intolerances when needed.
What IS Gluten?
Gluten is actually the Latin term for "glue". While that doesn't sound very appetizing, it does describe the function of gluten in foods quite well. This protein is found naturally in wheat, rye, barley, and other common grains. Gluten really does act like a glue that helps hold foods together and gives pastries and other bread items their beloved soft, elastic texture.
What Does it Mean to Have Celiac Disease?
Celiac Disease is a serious, genetic autoimmune disease. When people with Celiac Disease consume even a small amount of gluten, it can spell serious disaster for their health. Their reaction goes well beyond a simple stomach ache. Upon ingesting gluten, their body mounts an aggressive immune response in the digestive system and attacks their small intestine. Villi (small, hair-like structures) in the small intestine suffer serious damage and can no longer absorb the necessary nutrients the body needs to function. This can spell disaster. Without these nutrients, someone with Celiac Disease can suffer from iron deficiency, bone loss, arthritis, migraines, seizures, depression, anxiety, liver disorders, infertility, miscarriages, and more. Celiac Disease is serious.
How is a Gluten Intolerance Different?
Some individuals test negative for Celiac Disease, but they still suffer from similar symptoms when their diet includes gluten. Many experience difficulty focusing, unpleasant digestive conditions, bone and joint pain, ADHD-like behavior, chronic fatigue and more. If a doctor has ruled out Celiac Disease and a wheat allergy, someone suffering from these symptoms may have what is referred to as a "Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity". This can be determined by eliminating gluten from your diet for several weeks. If the symptoms desist, gluten intolerance was likely the culprit.
Do I Need to Avoid Gluten?
Always consult a doctor before drastically changing your diet. If you are not gluten intolerant and don't have Celiac Disease, there may not be a good reason to remove the substance from your diet. Many gluten-containing foods act as our main source of dietary fiber and B vitamins. This is why it is important to consult with a medical physician before removing gluten from your diet. You may need to supplement with fiber and vitamins.
Gluten-Free at JB Hook's
JB Hook's recognizes that gluten can cause serious issues and discomfort for those with a gluten-free lifestyle. Our staff is trained to take extra precautions with food allergies. As true professionals, we realize that gluten can be hidden in ingredients for sauces, seasoning mixes, and more. Be sure to let our staff know any dietary concerns you may have. While we don't have a separate cross-contamination free environment, our chefs will be thorough in preparing the safest dish possible for you to enjoy with peace of mind. Come by tonight and let us show you what we can do!
(Celiac and Gluten facts sourced from Celiac Disease Foundation: https://celiac.org/)
(Celiac and Gluten facts sourced from Celiac Disease Foundation: https://celiac.org/)
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