What To Know
- While the gluten content of spelt flour is lower than that of wheat flour, it is still significant enough to trigger symptoms in individuals with celiac disease.
- Based on the evidence presented, it is clear that spelt flour is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease.
- No, celiacs should not use spelt flour as a thickener as it contains gluten.
Celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, has become increasingly prevalent worldwide. As a result, individuals with celiac disease must adhere to a strict gluten-free diet. In the quest for alternative flours, spelt flour has emerged as a potential option. However, the question remains: is spelt flour suitable for celiacs?
What is Spelt Flour?
Spelt is an ancient grain closely related to wheat. Spelt flour is made by grinding the whole spelt grain, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. It has a nutty flavor and a slightly darker color than wheat flour.
Gluten Content of Spelt Flour
Contrary to popular belief, spelt flour does contain gluten. While the gluten content of spelt flour is lower than that of wheat flour, it is still significant enough to trigger symptoms in individuals with celiac disease. According to the Codex Alimentarius, any food containing less than 20 ppm of gluten is considered gluten-free. Spelt flour typically contains between 500 and 1200 ppm of gluten, far exceeding the safe threshold for celiacs.
Cross-Contamination Risk
Even if spelt flour were inherently gluten-free, the risk of cross-contamination during processing, packaging, and transportation is significant. Spelt is often grown, harvested, and processed in the same facilities as wheat, which increases the likelihood of gluten contamination.
Symptoms of Gluten Exposure in Celiacs
Consuming gluten-containing foods can trigger a range of symptoms in celiacs, including:
- Digestive issues (e.g., diarrhea, constipation, bloating, gas)
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Malnutrition
- Weight loss
- Skin rashes
- Headaches
- Mood changes
Health Benefits of Spelt Flour
While spelt flour is not suitable for celiacs, it may offer some health benefits for individuals without celiac disease. Spelt flour is a good source of:
- Fiber
- Protein
- Vitamins (e.g., B vitamins, vitamin E)
- Minerals (e.g., iron, magnesium, zinc)
Alternatives to Spelt Flour for Celiacs
Several gluten-free flours are available as alternatives to spelt flour, including:
- Rice flour
- Almond flour
- Coconut flour
- Quinoa flour
- Gluten-free oat flour
Recommendations: Is Spelt Flour Suitable for Celiacs?
Based on the evidence presented, it is clear that spelt flour is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease. While it may contain less gluten than wheat flour, the gluten content is still significant enough to trigger symptoms in celiacs. Additionally, the risk of cross-contamination is high, making it an unsuitable choice for those with celiac disease.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can celiacs eat spelt bread?
A: No, spelt bread is not suitable for celiacs as it contains gluten.
Q: Is spelt flour low-FODMAP?
A: No, spelt flour is not considered low-FODMAP as it contains high levels of fructans.
Q: Can celiacs use spelt flour as a thickener?
A: No, celiacs should not use spelt flour as a thickener as it contains gluten.
Q: Is spelt flour healthier than wheat flour?
A: For individuals without celiac disease, spelt flour may offer some nutritional benefits compared to wheat flour due to its higher fiber and nutrient content. However, it is not a healthier choice for celiacs.
Q: Can celiacs tolerate small amounts of spelt flour?
A: No, even small amounts of spelt flour can trigger symptoms in celiacs due to its gluten content.
