6 Tasty Snacks for a Gluten-Free Diet

   I know, from several months of research (and experience), that finding suitable snack-foods to incorporate into a gluten-free diet can be quite the struggle. However, after experimentation with a handful of different foods, I've discovered a handful of products that, in my opinion, could possibly be a great addition to the diet of someone with Celiac disease.

In this post I will list 6 tasty snacks for those who suffer from a gluten or wheat allergy/sensitivity.

#6- Pistachios

Pistachios are high in protein, to help keep you satiated for a few hours. In addition, pistachios are loaded with vitamins and nutrients, such as Vitamin B6 (to aid in blood-sugar regulation), Thiamin, and Copper, of which are crucial to your overall health.

Along with multiple other health benefits, pistachios alone have a deliciously mild, slightly-sweet flavor. Some pistachios can also be found with added flavors such as salt and pepper, chili pepper, and barbecue. Pistachios are naturally gluten-free, but some flavored varieties may contain gluten and other allergens.

#5- Old Wisconsin Snack Sticks

Another high-protein snack, the Old Wisconsin snack sticks are, according to the company, gluten-free. Every flavor of the Old Wisconsin Snack Sticks, from Original, to Beef, to Honey Brown Sugar Turkey, are all free of gluten and MSG. However, it is stated on the website of Old Wisconsin that some of their products, such as their "bold" flavored Snack Bites and Snack Sticks, contain gluten, risking cross-contamination. Always read the labels on the packages before making your purchase of these, or any, other products.

The pack the snack sticks come in is resealable, and the sticks are of rather small size, making them perfect for a road trip, vacation, or any other traveling occasion.

#4- Biena Roasted Chickpeas

Sometimes, we all want a nice, crunchy snack. Rather than grabbing a bag of potato chips (many of which are NOT gluten-free), you can grab a bag of Biena Roasted Chickpeas. The chickpeas come in a variety of flavors for you to try-- sea salt, honey roasted, habanero, and more.

Biena Roasted Chickpeas have at least 110 calories per serving, along with 6 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber. A tasty and healthy alternative to a high-fat, high-sodium bag of chips, it would do you purchase a bag of these chickpeas for yourself.

#3- Forelle Pear

A great, healthy snack for anytime, a Forelle pear is a good source of fiber and carbohydrates, and is naturally gluten-free. Forelle pears are only available from September to January. They have a distinct rounded bell shape, and when ripe, are speckled with red dots, such as in the picture above. 

Forelle pears have a lower caloric value than other pears-- only 100 calories-- compared to the 120 calories in a Bosc or Red Anjou pear. Like other pears, eating a Forelle pear provides you with decent amounts of both Vitamin C and Vitamin K, which together can rid your body of contaminants while keeping your blood and bones healthy and strong.

#2- Lundberg Family Farms Organic Rice Cakes

Rice cakes are often seen as a bland, uninteresting food. However, Lundberg Family Farms creates a product line of organic rice cakes in a unique selection of flavors, including caramel corn, lightly salted, and honey nut.

These rice cakes can be eaten by themselves, or topped with fruits. You can also eat them with meat or a nut butter, for some added protein. Low in calories, yet high in flavor, these vegan, non-GMO rice cakes would be a welcomed addition to your diet.

#1- Bumble Bee Cracked Pepper and Sea Salt Tuna

Although some brands of flavored tuna may contain wheat "filler" ingredients, this variety from Bumble Bee only lists light tuna, water, sea salt, and cracked black pepper on its ingredient list. A simple, yet bold flavor, this pouch of tuna is convenient for travel, which may also pose a challenge for someone on a gluten-free diet.

This tuna is low in both carbs and fat, yet high in protein, making it both a great snack to eat by itself, and to eat as part of a meal. As a personal suggestion, I recommend for you to try this tuna with #2 on my list, the organic rice cakes, for a delicious and healthy snack.

Thank you to those who have read. In the comments below, it would be highly appreciated if anyone had more gluten-free snack suggestions that they would recommend. ♪