Eating porridge

[Lynda scott]

Hi I am newly diagnosed celiac and I love my porridge, if I go out for bread it’s what I choose as little gluten free choices, is it ok as it does not seem to set my tummy off so feels ok and can I eat onions thanks Lynda 

[trents]

Welcome to the forum, @Lynda scott!

Lynda, your sentence is a little awkward so could you provide some clarity?

You say, "if I go out for bread it's what I choose as little gluten free choices". Are you speaking of going grocery shopping or going out to eat at a restaurant? You seem to be saying there are few gluten free choices but I am not sure of the context.

What kind of grain or grains does your "porridge" consist of? Is this just oatmeal or is it composed of some other grain or grains?

Gluten is found in wheat, barley and rye and some varieties of oats. So, it is important when consuming oats to use only those oat products that are tested to be gluten free. Even then, about 8% of celiacs react to all oat protein the same way they do to the gluten in wheat, barley and rye. 

The absence of discomfort when consuming a food product does not necessarily mean it is gluten free and not causing any damage to your gut. The reaction can be so minor you don't notice it. No, it is not okay to eat things that you suspect have small amounts of gluten in them. In the USA, the Food and Drug Administration has established a standard of not more than 20 parts per million as defining what gluten free means. I think that is pretty much an international standard as well. There is a stricter standard known as Certified Gluten Free that requires not more than 10 parts per million. 

The best and most economical way to eat gluten free is to choose a lot of simple, non-grain based foods such as fresh meat, veggies and fruits and to make your own meals rather than buying a lot of prepackaged ready made gluten free products.

Edited March 20, 2025 by trents

[Scott Adams]

You seem to be confused about what is gluten-free and what isn't. This article has some detailed information on how to be 100% gluten-free, so it may be helpful (be sure to also read the comments section.):