Gluten Free Oats

[JRiv]

Has anyone ever used these? I'm on a gluten free diet and was so excited when I found these in my local Publix! As you fellow GF people know, oats are not in our diet. Unfortunately, I didn't react so well. I experienced severe cramping, bloating (and other things) for 2 days. On day 3, I decided not to have them for breakfast and see if that made a difference. I felt so much better and didn't have the same issues. But I'm confused as to why I had a reaction when they are gluten free oats? Anyone know? Thanks!

[Katrina]

I've had pretty good luck with oats, thankfully. I'm not sure why you've had a reaction, since oats don't contain the gluten that is harmful to us. Perhaps you're also allergic to oat gluten? Maybe the oats were advertised as gluten free, but processed with wheat and barley? I'd make sure that the label specifically says that they are processed on their own, as to avoid any cross-contamination. Many major-brands have bought up smaller organic or family-run brands and taken over production and let quality and quality assurance fall by the wayside. Maybe that's what happened here? Sorry to hear that you've had such a bad experience!

[lisac957]

I've seen warnings on gluten free oats packaging that if your body is not used to oats, you should SLOWLY introduce them to your diet, as a sudden influx can cause reactions in some people.

So maybe just have 1/2 or 1/3 of a serving to start, and not every day? If that does not work, they could be contaminated or you could have a separate oat allergy.

[lisac957]

Originally Posted by JRiv

As you fellow GF people know, oats are not in our diet.

Actually oats are naturally gluten free. It's the manufacturing/processing that contaminates them.

[JRiv]

Thanks lisac957! I think I might just stay away from them all together. I've lived for a year without them, I think I can manage. My stomach is so sensitive to things most people are fine with on a daily basis. I guess it's all about trial and error!