Whether it’s the latest celebrity athlete or your mom’s best friend, it seems like everyone is talking about “gluten” and going “gluten-free.” So what IS gluten?

Gluten is the collective term for the proteins found in the grains wheat, rye and barley and their various forms. It is best known for giving baked goods their doughy, elastic structure, however many foods contain gluten for other purposes, including as a thickening agent or flavor enhancer. The effects of gluten are not the same for everyone. While the vast majority of Americans consume gluten and experience no side effects, some must avoid gluten due to specific medical conditions. Learn more with our latest infographic:

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