human
I've been hearing about this "gluten-free" diet. What is it all about?
assistant
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley that gives dough its elasticity. People with celiac disease must avoid gluten because it causes an immune reaction that damages the lining of the small intestine. The "gluten-free" diet excludes these grains but allows other sources of gluten such as oats, spelt, and kamut. It also includes foods made from alternative starches like potato flour or tapioca starch.