Thrive Market is an online retail marketplace that is membership-based and deals with the sale of non-GMO, organic, sustainable, gluten-free, household, beauty products, and more.
Gluten-free items are one of the several products that Thrive Market offers. If you’re gluten-free, Thrive Market is the best place for you to get gluten-free products.
Gluten-free products refer to diets or products that do not contain gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and their derivatives.
What are the first signs of being gluten-intolerant?
Gluten intolerance, also known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), can manifest with a range of symptoms. The first signs can vary from person to person, but common early indicators of gluten intolerance may include:
- Digestive Issues: Many people with gluten intolerance experience digestive problems, such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation, shortly after consuming gluten-containing foods.
- Abdominal Discomfort: Pain or discomfort in the abdominal area, including cramps, is a common symptom.
- Fatigue: Unexplained fatigue or tiredness may occur, even after adequate rest.
- Headaches: Some individuals with NCGS report headaches or migraines as a symptom.
- Joint Pain: Joint pain or discomfort without an apparent cause can be an early sign for some people.
- Brain Fog: Cognitive symptoms like difficulty concentrating, brain fog, or memory issues may be present.
- Skin Problems: Skin conditions such as eczema or dermatitis herpetiformis can develop or worsen.
- Depression and Anxiety: Mood disturbances, including depression and anxiety, have been associated with gluten intolerance.
It’s important to note that the symptoms of gluten intolerance can overlap with various other conditions, making diagnosis challenging. If you suspect gluten intolerance, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation, as they can help rule out other conditions and guide you through the process of determining whether gluten is the cause of your symptoms. The gold standard for diagnosing celiac disease and ruling out NCGS is through medical evaluation and testing.
What products are declared gluten-free?
Products that are declared gluten-free are those that have been tested and verified to contain less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, which is the threshold considered safe for most people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. These products often carry a “gluten-free” label on their packaging to indicate their compliance with gluten-free standards. It’s essential to read food labels carefully and look for such labeling if you need to avoid gluten in your diet. Additionally, many naturally gluten-free products, like fruits, vegetables, rice, and certain grains like quinoa, are inherently gluten-free and do not require specific labeling. Always check product labels and consult with healthcare professionals if you have concerns about gluten in your diet.
What popular items are gluten-free?
Many popular items are naturally gluten-free, including:
- Fruits and vegetables: Fresh vegetables, whether or not they are labeled as gluten-free, are naturally free from gluten. Similarly, when you choose a fresh fruit, like a banana, you can be confident that it is gluten-free and safe for consumption.
- Meats and poultry (unprocessed): Animal protein is perfectly fine to consume. However, when dining at a restaurant, be cautious of ordering meat that is breaded or prepared with ingredients that may contain gluten.
- Fish and seafood: This is safe to consume, but ensure that it isn’t prepared with ingredients that may contain gluten.
- Rice and rice-based products: Rice is a staple in gluten-free diets because it is naturally free of gluten. It can serve as a versatile and safe option for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. However, it’s important to ensure that rice and rice products haven’t been cross-contaminated with gluten during processing or preparation, especially if you have a severe gluten allergy.
- Quinoa: You can maintain your variety of grains. Many people are unaware of the abundance of gluten-free grain options available.
- Dairy products (except for some flavored varieties): When adopting a gluten-free diet, you typically need to forgo most bread. Fortunately, cheese, butter, and milk are still suitable options.
- Eggs: Eggs are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe and versatile option for those following a gluten-free diet. Whether you use eggs in baking or as a primary source of protein, you can enjoy them without worrying about their gluten content. However, it’s crucial to be mindful of the ingredients you mix with eggs, as some additives or fillings might contain gluten. Always double-check labels and preparation methods to maintain a gluten-free diet.
- Legumes (beans, lentils, etc.): Legumes are inherently free from gluten, yet it’s possible that certain dried varieties could have come into contact with gluten-containing products, leading to potential cross-contamination.
Additionally, many brands offer gluten-free versions of popular items like bread, pasta, and snacks. Be sure to check the packaging for a “gluten-free” label or certification to ensure they meet your dietary needs. Keep in mind that some processed foods may contain hidden sources of gluten, so reading labels is crucial if you have a gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
While many whole, unprocessed foods are naturally gluten-free, it’s essential to be cautious when it comes to processed and packaged products. The gluten-free status of these items can vary, and cross-contamination is a concern. To make informed choices:
- Read Labels: Always read product labels carefully. Look for a “gluten-free” certification or label if available.
- Check Ingredients: Even seemingly safe products may contain gluten-based additives or flavorings. Watch out for ingredients like wheat, barley, rye, and malt.
- Beware of Cross-Contamination: Cross-contamination can occur during manufacturing or preparation. Consider brands that follow strict gluten-free protocols.
- Gluten-Free Alternatives: For items like bread, pasta, and snacks, explore dedicated gluten-free brands or those known for their gluten-free options.
- Consult Professionals: If you have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, consult with a healthcare provider or dietitian for guidance on managing a gluten-free diet tailored to your specific needs.
Staying informed and cautious is key to safely enjoying a gluten-free lifestyle, and it’s always a good practice to double-check product information as ingredients and manufacturing processes may change.
What is surprisingly not gluten-free?
Many foods that may seem naturally gluten-free can contain hidden sources of gluten due to cross-contamination during processing or hidden ingredients. Here are a few surprising foods that may not be gluten-free:
- Soy Sauce: Traditional soy sauce often contains wheat as a primary ingredient. Look for gluten-free soy sauce alternatives if you require a gluten-free diet.
- Some Processed Meats: Some processed meats like sausages, hot dogs, and deli meats may contain gluten in the form of fillers, binders, or additives.
- Certain Soups and Sauces: Soups and sauces, especially canned or pre-packaged varieties, can contain gluten thickeners or flavorings. Always check the labels.
- Blue Cheese: Some blue cheese varieties are made with bread mold, and traces of gluten can remain in the cheese. Look for gluten-free blue cheese if necessary.
- Imitation Seafood: Imitation crab, lobster, and other seafood products often contain wheat-based fillers.
- Beer: Traditional beer is brewed from barley, which contains gluten. Gluten-free beer options are available, though.
- Cereals: While many cereals are made from gluten-containing grains, some may also have hidden gluten in flavorings or additives.
- Licorice: Licorice candy often contains wheat flour as a thickening agent.
- Processed Snack Foods: Snack foods like flavored chips, pretzels, and even some seasoned nuts can contain gluten in their flavorings and coatings.
Always check food labels, and if you have dietary restrictions due to celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, consider using certified gluten-free products to minimize the risk of consuming gluten inadvertently.
Are Thrive products gluten-free?
Thrive products vary in their ingredients, so it’s essential to check the label or contact the manufacturer directly to determine if a specific Thrive product is gluten-free. Gluten-free options are available, but it’s always best to verify each product to ensure it meets your dietary requirements.
Does Thrive Market have a lot of gluten-free products?
Thrive Market is known for offering a wide range of specialty and health-oriented products, including many gluten-free options. They typically have a substantial selection of gluten-free products, which can include gluten-free snacks, baking ingredients, pasta, sauces, and more. However, the specific variety of gluten-free products available can vary over time and by location.
To find gluten-free products on Thrive Market, you can use their website or app to browse their catalog and filter products by dietary preferences, including “gluten-free.” This will help you easily identify the gluten-free options that meet your dietary needs.
Keep in mind that product availability may change, so it’s a good idea to check their website for the most up-to-date selection of gluten-free products.
Summary
Thrive Market offers gluten-free products, but it is important to read labels so as to get gluten-free products. Avoid cross-contamination as well.
You’re now well aware of foods that are naturally gluten-free and those that contain gluten. Always make sure you check the labels of processed foods and also check for the ingredients used in their production. Thankfully, a wide array of whole foods are inherently gluten-free, and you can enjoy them without any concerns.