Alternative Foods to Wheat Products

Wheat is a grass which is cultivated and farmed all over the world, and it is known for its grain. A wide range of products are made from grains, such as flour, cereal and pasta. Contrary to popular belief, wheat can be a wholesome and nutritious source of food for a healthy, balanced diet.

These days, many supermarkets contain a good selection of gluten-free foods. There are other people who have a wheat allergy or intolerance and they need to avoid wheat altogether. The table below shows a list of alternatives to wheat².

All grains start out as whole grains. Whole grains offer vitamins and minerals, as well as other nutrients and anti-oxidants. Studies have shown that eating more whole grains may help reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer and diabetes¹. Sources of food containing whole grain wheat are:

• Durum wheat pasta
• Whole grain breads
• Spelt crackers

However, when wheat grain is processed and refined, it loses these nutrients and vitamins. To maintain a healthy diet, you should reduce your intake of foods containing processed foods, such as white bread, pizza, cakes and pastries, substitute with foods made from whole grain wheat.

Allergies and Intolerances

There are some people who have Celiac disease or gluten intolerance, the symptoms of which include chronic diarrhoea, weight loss and fatigue. Celiac sufferers need to avoid foods containing gluten, a substance found in:

• Wheat
• Oats
• Barley
• Rye

References :

¹ Wheatfoods
² Wheat Alternatives