Hidden Sources of Gluten and Unexpected Products That May Contain Gluten (+Video)

Celiac.com 12/19/2024 - For individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, managing a gluten-free lifestyle often goes beyond just food choices. While most people are aware of the need to avoid gluten-containing foods like wheat, barley, and rye, fewer realize that gluten can hide in non-food products as well. From skincare items to medications, gluten can unexpectedly be present in everyday items that many wouldn’t think to check. Understanding these hidden sources is critical for maintaining a fully gluten-free lifestyle.

Gluten in Skincare and Beauty Products

One of the least suspected places for gluten to appear is in skincare and beauty products. While gluten cannot be absorbed through the skin, individuals who are highly sensitive to gluten or have celiac disease may accidentally ingest gluten-containing products through their lips or hands. Here's where gluten might hide:

• Lipsticks and Lip Balms: Since these products are applied directly to the lips, they are easily ingested. Lipsticks and balms often contain gluten-derived ingredients such as wheat germ or barley.
• Lotions and Creams: Some moisturizers, creams, and body lotions may include hydrolyzed wheat protein, which is derived from gluten grains. While applying these to your skin may not directly cause an internal reaction, they can still pose a risk if transferred to your mouth or ingested indirectly.
• Shampoos and Conditioners: Hair care products can sometimes contain wheat proteins, especially those that focus on hydration and strength. Individuals should be cautious of washing their hair and inadvertently swallowing some of the product or touching their face afterward.

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Checking the ingredient list on beauty products for terms like "Triticum vulgare" (wheat), "Hordeum vulgare" (barley), or "Secale cereale" (rye) can help avoid unintentional exposure. Additionally, many companies now offer certified gluten-free beauty products, making it easier for those with sensitivities.

Gluten in Medications and Supplements

Many people overlook the possibility of gluten in medications, but the truth is that gluten can appear in prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements. This occurs because some pills and tablets use gluten as a binder or filler. Key areas to be aware of include:

• Prescription Medications: Certain drugs may contain gluten as an inactive ingredient. In some cases, starch-based fillers used to bind the tablet together could be derived from wheat or other gluten-containing grains. Search for inactive ingredients and allergens contained in prescription medications at https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/.
• Vitamins and Supplements: Gluten is sometimes used in vitamins and supplements, especially in products that contain grain-based additives. While many supplements now advertise as gluten-free, it’s crucial to check labels or consult the manufacturer for confirmation.
• Over-the-Counter Medicines: Commonly used medicines like ibuprofen, cough syrups, or antacids can sometimes contain gluten. It's important for people who require a strict gluten-free regimen to seek out certified gluten-free alternatives when purchasing over-the-counter medications.

For safety, always consult your pharmacist or doctor to ensure the medications you're taking are gluten-free, particularly if the product labeling is unclear.

Gluten in Household Products

Surprisingly, household items can also be a source of gluten. Although these products aren't consumed directly, they can still pose a risk through accidental ingestion, inhalation, or cross-contamination.

• Playdough: Traditional playdough is typically made with wheat flour, making it an obvious source of gluten. While children might not eat playdough, the risk of transferring gluten from hands to mouths during playtime is high. Fortunately, gluten-free playdough options are available.
• Cleaning Products: Some household cleaning products, especially those with plant-based ingredients, may use wheat or oat extracts. This is more of a concern for individuals who are extremely sensitive to gluten, as they may touch surfaces and later touch their mouths.
• Laundry Detergent: While the risk of gluten transfer through clothing is minimal, some laundry detergents do contain gluten-based ingredients. For those who are highly sensitive, choosing a gluten-free detergent may provide peace of mind.

Gluten in Arts and Crafts Materials

Another often-overlooked source of gluten is arts and crafts materials, especially for children and hobbyists. Craft supplies can pose a hidden risk, and many individuals with gluten sensitivity may not consider these items as potential hazards.

• Craft Glue and Adhesives: Certain glues, especially those marketed for children or used in arts and crafts, may contain wheat-based ingredients. Since children often use their hands while crafting and may accidentally ingest gluten, it’s worth checking for gluten-free alternatives.
• Paper Mache: Traditional paper mache recipes frequently involve flour, typically wheat, as a base for creating the paste. Gluten-free alternatives can be made using rice flour or gluten-free pastes.
• Finger Paints and Clay: Some finger paints and clays, similar to playdough, use wheat as a binding agent. For sensitive individuals or children with gluten intolerance, gluten-free crafting products are a safer option.

Avoiding Hidden Gluten: Best Practices

Navigating a gluten-free lifestyle means staying vigilant not only about what you eat but also what you use on your body and in your home. To minimize the risk of exposure to hidden gluten, follow these tips:

• Always Check Labels: Just as you would with food, check the labels of non-food products like beauty items, medications, and household products. Look for certified gluten-free labels when possible.
• Consult with Manufacturers: If the label isn't clear, don’t hesitate to contact manufacturers to ask whether their products contain gluten. Many companies now have dedicated customer service lines to address allergen concerns.
• Opt for Certified Gluten-Free Products: In recent years, more companies are recognizing the need for gluten-free versions of everyday products. Opt for certified gluten-free brands when buying skincare, medications, and household products.
• Be Cautious with DIY Products: For crafting, opt for homemade, gluten-free versions of items like playdough or paper mache. Recipes using gluten-free flours or starches can be a safe alternative for sensitive individuals.

By staying informed and checking ingredient lists carefully, those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity can reduce their exposure to hidden gluten in non-food items and maintain their health.

Hopefully we've shed some light on how gluten can be found in a variety of unexpected products beyond food. With the right knowledge and precautions, those living with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity can better manage their daily exposure and protect their health.

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