Athletes with Gluten Sensitivities

Gluten reduces the absorption of nutrients and leads to poor nutrition and lack of energy which can obviously effect training and performance. Athletes need to ensure they are focusing on these areas to feel better and enjoy training:

 

• Follow a gluten-free diet as a permanent eating style.
• Eliminate symptoms such as indigestion, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and chronic fatigue that are associated with exposure to gluten.
• Improve energy levels during exercise.
• Prevent complications of Celiac disease such as anemia, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and bone mineral disturbances.

These goals can be achieved pretty easily. Gluten-free foods are available in large grocery stores, specialty markets, and on the Internet. Read labels carefully to ensure that foods are gluten-free. Gluten may be
present in un-expected places, such as stabilizers, sauces, malt, medications,and supplements.When traveling, bring gluten-free foods; inform restaurants and airlines of your needs. Obviously, a well rounded diet makes a world of difference in feeling your best. A food diary is useful in identifying sources of unintended gluten consumption.

Performance Foods for Gluten-Free Diets:

• Whole grain and enriched gluten-free carbohydrate sources: rice, corn, flax, quinoa, amaranth, millet, potatoes, buckwheat, soy, tapioca, wild rice.
• Healthy fats: vegetable oils, flaxseed, tuna, salmon, nuts, seeds
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• Protein sources: meat, poultry, seafood, un-breaded fish, eggs, dairy foods, nuts, seeds
• Fruits, fruit beverages, fruit drinks
• Vegetables (fresh, frozen, canned), vegetable juices
• Snacks such as corn chips, rice cakes, gluten-free pretzels
• Gluten-free specialty sports foods such as gluten-free sports bars and gels

Team Gluten Free is a website devoted to making athletic life enjoyable living the gluten-free lifestyle. Enjoy!

Reference: http://www.scandpg.org/local/resources/files/2009/SD-USA_Fact_Sheet_Gluten_Sensitivity_In_Athletes_Oct%2009.pdf