### What You Need to Know About Gluten-Free Beer Giving up gluten isn’t easy, especially if you love beer. Here’s what you need to know about gluten-free beer: **What is Gluten?** Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It’s in many foods like bread, pasta, and cereals. For people with celiac disease, gluten triggers inflammation in the small intestine, leading to damage and poor nutrient absorption. The only treatment is a gluten-free diet. **Gluten-Free Beer** Regular beer is made with barley and wheat, which contain gluten. Even though brewing reduces gluten levels, typical beer still has more than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten, which is not safe for a gluten-free diet. Gluten-free beers are made with grains that don’t contain gluten, such as sorghum, quinoa, and buckwheat. These beers might taste different from regular beers and often cost more due to the alternative grains used. **Gluten-Removed Beer** Some beers are labeled as “gluten-removed.” They are made with gluten-containing grains, but the gluten is removed during production. However, traces of gluten may remain, making them unsafe for people with celiac disease. **Safety Tips** - If you have celiac disease, stick to beers labeled as gluten-free. - Other gluten-free alcoholic options include wine, pure distilled liquors, and hard ciders (check labels for barley). - Drink alcohol in moderation: up to two drinks a day for men and one for women. Enjoy your gluten-free beer safely!