human
I've heard that a lot of people are taking a gluten-free diet. What is gluten and why do so many people avoid it?
assistant
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. It is responsible for the stretchy texture of breads, pastries, and other baked goods. People who have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity can experience symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, and weight loss when they eat gluten. They may also have an increased risk of certain cancers.