What’s The Difference Between Gluten & Gluten Free Pasta?

For most people, pasta is a classic comfort food. Whether it’s lasagna, alfredo, spaghetti, or anywhere in between, Italian pasta dishes are a frequent staple for many families.

Although the majority of people can eat wheat pasta without any discomfort, pasta that is made from wheat isn’t a great option for many people. This includes individuals who have gluten intolerances, celiac disease, and diabetes, or people who are on a low-carb or keto diet. Unfortunately, being forced to avoid your favorite comfort foods can be devastating.

The solution for people who must avoid gluten is the revolution of delicious gluten-free pastas, which are made with healthy ingredients and taste amazing while also being free of gluten. You can enjoy chef-inspired gluten-free mac ‘n cheese at your local Mesa healthy drive-thru restaurant for an amazing meal that will fit the dietary needs of everyone in your family!

Why Would Someone Eat Gluten Free?

There are several reasons why someone might choose or need to eat gluten-free. The most common reasons include:

Intolerances: Less severe than an allergy, gluten intolerance can look like bloating and abdominal pain after eating, constipation or diarrhea, other digestive issues, acne, mood issues, and more.

Allergies: People who have a gluten allergy cannot digest gluten. This can range from an allergy to an auto immune disorder. In people with celiac disease, gluten triggers a negative immune response that can seriously damage the lining of the small intestine, causing gastric distress and other symptoms. If a person with celiac disease continues to consume gluten over a long period of time, they can become seriously malnourished as their body becomes too damaged to properly absorb nutrients from food.

Chronic health conditions: People who suffer from Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, chronic inflammatory conditions, or have other chronic health issues may find a reduction of their symptoms or improvement in their health when they avoid gluten.

Lifestyle choices: For some people, the choice to avoid gluten can be a matter of personal preference rather than a specific health need. Some people experience increased energy, improved mood, or better digestion when they choose to eat gluten-free.

Whatever the reason, more and more people are avoiding gluten, which means that gluten-free food options are increasing everywhere!

What is Gluten-Free and Regular Pasta?

Traditional pasta is made with wheat flour and water or eggs. The dough is then formed into sheets which can be pressed into the variety of different shapes that we all love: penne, fusilli, linguine, orzo, and so many more. Once they’ve been pressed, pasta is either dried or cooked fresh in boiling water.

Gluten-free pasta must be made without wheat, rye, barley, and triticale. All of those grains contain the gluten protein that can be so inflammatory and damaging to some people. In order to avoid gluten, gluten-free pasta can be made with a combination of many different grains and flours, including corn, rice, potato, quinoa, millet, and buckwheat, and even chickpeas, lentils, or almonds.

Most gluten-free pastas are made with a combination of flours to produce a delicious pasta that closely replicates wheat pasta in flavor and texture. When you order Mesa food delivery, you can try some of the best gluten-free mac n’ cheese ever at Make A Mac!

Is Gluten-Free Pasta Healthier?

The healthiest option for you will depend on your dietary needs. For many people, gluten-free pasta is easily digested and offers many health benefits even if they are able to eat gluten, because it’s always good to add variety into a healthy diet. Some people may need to experiment to see if they do well with different types of rice or legumes as they determine which type of gluten-free pasta is best for them.

Avoid These Common Myths Surrounding Gluten-Free Pasta

Gluten-free pasta is low carb. Some gluten-free pastas are low-carb and can be eaten by people on keto or low carb diets. However, pastas made with gluten-free grains such as corn or rice simply replace wheat and are not low in carbohydrates.

Gluten-free pastas are hard to cook. Many types of gluten-free pasta are cooked very similarly to wheat pasta. Simply follow the package directions, which may include cooking for less time than other types of pasta, and get ready to enjoy a perfect pasta! 

Gluten-free pasta doesn’t taste good. A quality gluten-free pasta is almost identical to regular pasta. In fact, your family may not even notice! The primary difference is that gluten-free pasta tends to have a more grainy texture and may offer a slightly nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy sauce.

Don’t Miss The Gluten With Creamy Mac n’ Cheese From Your Local Mesa Drive-Thru Restaurant!

If you’re looking for the best healthy drive-thru or food delivery in Mesa that will accommodate all of your dietary needs, check out Make a Mac. Our chef-inspired mac n’ cheese dishes are sure to satisfy all of your comfort food cravings while leaving you free of digestive discomfort. We cater to all dietary needs and are proud to offer an amazing gluten-free pasta that won’t make you miss the gluten! Stop by today for an amazing bowl of mac n’ cheese you won’t forget!