In this world, trends quickly change and certain diets are becoming the new trend for many Americans. One such diet that has begun and spread like a wildfire is the gluten-free diet. Some people go on this diet voluntarily, but some others are forced to eat gluten-free, as they are sensitive to gluten, or even have a gluten allergy. This allergy is known as Celiac's Disease. People with this condition often find themselves in physical pain after eating products containing gluten. Gluten can be found in anything from bread and pasta to sauces or pastries. Recently, I have learned that I am now a part of the Celiac crowd, and my food choices are limited - or so I thought.

Although many of the delicious foods I love do happen to contain gluten, there are many alternatives that can be used to make these foods edible for those who can't eat gluten. For example, many people use rice flour or coconut flour in place of regular flour. The biggest difference when using a similar ingredient is usually the texture of what is made. For the most part, though, the food tastes the same and often, you would never know it is gluten-free, which is a plus for those of us who can't eat the "real good stuff" like everyone else can.

The gluten-free trend is becoming so widespread because people are realizing how much healthier it is to eat gluten-free, and how easy it has become to cook gluten-free as well. Not only can we cook gluten-free meals at home, but more often than not, a restaurant menu will indicate menu items that are gluten-free, too, which can be very helpful. However, often, especially at pizza places, there can be an up-charge to get your pizza made with gluten-free dough instead of a normal dough, which contains gluten.

If you're like me, you probably think it's a little unfair that these gluten-free substitutions are more expensive than the usual, gluten-filled options. Maybe some day, the discrepancy in the price will disappear, once everyone comes to the conclusion that gluten-free food is a must, at least for some people. But until then I stand with you against the price difference between gluten free and gluten full food.

Whether you're struggling with Celiac or maybe just struggling with your waistline, a gluten-free diet is the new and improved way to help it out. Just know that it's not impossible and it's not gross to be healthy or gluten-free, and sometimes it can even be fun!