Gluten-free foods, such as gluten-free pitas, are becoming quite popular as many people are learning that food related symptoms can range from mild discomfort to serious health problems. Celiac disease is a disease that can cause damage to the small intestine. A gluten-free diet can help lessen the amount and severity of symptoms of this disease. People who practice a gluten-free diet may still enjoy some of their favorite foods, if such foods are available in a formula that does not contain gluten. This includes gluten-free pita.
Gluten is a protein that can be found in several different types of grains. Probably the most widely recognized type is wheat, and consumers often look for labels that declare that no wheat is contained in the product. Some labels specifically say gluten-free. Keep in mind that other foods can become contaminated if made in the same plant that processes other foods that do contain gluten, so one must always read labels thoroughly.
Pita is a type of flat bread that is round in shape. Due to the way it is prepared, it will form into two attached layers with a hollow center. The circular bread is then frequently cut in half down the middle, and each side is gently opened to create two “pockets.” Gluten-free pita pockets can be filled with favorite meats, cheeses, salads, sprouts and veggies, or other ingredients.
Gluten-free pita is offered for those who cannot enjoy bread products that contain gluten. There are also a number of gluten-free recipes available, online and in cookbooks and magazines. Those practicing a gluten-free diet may find that there diet is now not as restrictive as it once was, with the many new foods and recipes that are currently available. Cooks can get creative and add fruit and cream cheese to pita for a dessert, scrambled eggs for a breakfast sandwich, or favorite ingredients to make gluten-free pita pizza.
Many people have learned to shop and cook differently for themselves or for their loved ones who need to follow special gluten-free diets. Creating their own recipes for foods such as gluten-free pita has not only helped them eat healthier and be able to enjoy some old favorites, but it has in some cases also gone on to become a career. In some cases, the search for gluten-free foods has led to creating recipes that became the avenue for starting gluten-free food businesses.