Is Glutamate Gluten Free?

Is Glutamate Gluten Free?

Yes, glutamate is gluten-free. Glutamate is an amino acid that is chemically unrelated to gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

Dynamic Image
Health Information
Benefits of Glutamate

Neurotransmitter function: Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, essential for learning, memory, and cognitive function.

Protein synthesis: As an amino acid, glutamate is crucial for building proteins in the body.

Energy production: Glutamate can be converted to α-ketoglutarate, which plays a role in the citric acid cycle for energy production.

Gut health: It supports the health and function of the intestinal lining.

Immune system support: Glutamate is important for the proper functioning of immune cells.

Flavor enhancement: As a flavor enhancer (in the form of monosodium glutamate), it can make foods more palatable, potentially encouraging better nutrition.

Antioxidant production: Glutamate is a precursor to glutathione, a powerful antioxidant in the body.

Blood sugar regulation: It may play a role in insulin secretion and glucose metabolism.

Brain development: Glutamate is crucial for proper brain development in fetuses and young children.

Detoxification: It assists in the body’s natural detoxification processes, particularly in the liver.

Wound healing: Glutamate is involved in tissue repair processes.It’s important to note that while glutamate has these benefits, excessive amounts can be harmful, particularly to brain health. Balance is key, and most people get sufficient glutamate from a normal diet.

Who should avoid Glutamate

People with glutamate sensitivity or intolerance

Individuals with migraine headaches, as glutamate may trigger or worsen symptoms

Those with asthma, as some studies suggest a potential link between glutamate and asthma exacerbation

People with epilepsy, as glutamate may affect seizure activity in some cases

Individuals with neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease, due to glutamate’s role in neurotransmission

Those with anxiety disorders, as glutamate may influence anxiety levels

People with certain gastrointestinal issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Individuals with autism spectrum disorders, as some research suggests a potential connection between glutamate and autism symptoms

Those with chronic pain conditions, as glutamate may play a role in pain signaling

People with certain types of cancer, as glutamate may influence tumor growth in some casesIt’s important to note that while these groups may need to be cautious, individual responses to glutamate can vary. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Explore gluten management solutions like Tolerase® G.

[product_page id="21546"]

What is Tolerase® G?

A new Approach for People with Gluten Sensitivity:
Explore the Science and Benefits of Tolerase® G.

 

Relief from Gluten Sensitivity

In the fight against gluten, there is a unique supplement that stands out: Little Helpers anti-gluten pills with 100% Tolerase® G.

This specific enzyme, Tolerase® G, a patented endopeptidase specific for proline, was developed by  Royal DSM  and has been scientifically proven to be effective in breaking down gluten residues​ ( 1) ​. Furthermore, research has shown that Aspergillus niger prolyl endoprotease (AN-PEP), an enzyme closely related to Tolerase® G, can break down gluten so effectively that it barely reaches the duodenum, potentially eliminating gluten toxicity​ ( 2) ( ​​3 ) ​.

On this page we explain why we are so enthusiastic about this supplement, supported by scientific research.

What is Gluten?

Gluten is a group of proteins found primarily in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. These complex proteins give shape, strength, and texture to bread and other grain products. However, gluten is difficult to digest because it is rich in proline, a non-essential amino acid. This is why about 13% of the world’s population is sensitive to gluten in their diet​ (1)​.

How Tolerase® G Works

It is important to note that Tolerase G is designed to have optimal activity in the difficult conditions of the stomach. Its effectiveness on the digestion of gluten in the stomach and duodenum has been scientifically proven ( 1 ).

Studies have shown that a newly identified prolyl endoprotease derived from Aspergillus niger can effectively break down gluten proteins. This enzyme works optimally at a pH of 4–5, remains stable at pH 2, and is completely resistant to digestion by pepsin ( 2 ). Furthermore, research has shown that Aspergillus niger prolyl endoprotease (AN-PEP) accelerates the breakdown of gluten in the stomach so much that very little gluten reaches the duodenum ( 3 ). This suggests that co-administration of AN-PEP with a meal containing gluten could potentially eliminate gluten toxicity, allowing people to (occasionally) abandon their strict gluten-free diet ( 3 ).

ALSO CONVINCED?

100% Tolerase® G Anti-Gluten Pills

Unique Enzyme Solution

Discover how our 100% Tolerase® G pills help digest gluten and support your lifestyle in a clear video.

Little Helpers & Tolerase® G: Stronger Together in the Fight against Gluten.

At Little Helpers we are proud of our unique partnership with the producer of Tolerase® G  DSM . Together we have spent 2.5 years of research and worked tirelessly to develop and perfect our gluten digestion pill, which contains 100% Tolerase® G.

Our shared commitment to quality and effectiveness has resulted in a product that is unmatched in the market. We have chosen to manufacture locally in Europe to ensure the highest quality standards and control.

Our pill has proven to be many times more effective than our competitors, and we offer it at the best price. We are convinced that our pill can make a difference for people who struggle with gluten sensitivity. That is why we encourage everyone to try it and experience the benefits for themselves!

The Only Effective Anti-Gluten Pills

Little Helpers Anti-Gluten Pills contain 100% Tolerase® G. Tolerase® G is the only enzyme on the market that has been scientifically proven to be effective enough to break down gluten in the stomach to the point where the body no longer reacts to it.

Related Gluten Free Products
Yeast Extract:A natural flavor enhancer derived from yeast, rich in glutamates. It provides a savory, umami taste to foods and is often used as a substitute for MSG.
Mushroom Powder:Made from dried, ground mushrooms, it's rich in natural glutamates. It adds depth and umami flavor to dishes while providing a subtle earthy taste.
Tamari:A gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, made from fermented soybeans. It's rich in glutamates and provides a salty, savory flavor to foods.
Nutritional Yeast:Deactivated yeast sold in flake or powder form. It has a nutty, cheesy flavor and is rich in glutamates, making it popular in vegan cooking for adding umami taste.
Kombu:A type of edible kelp used in Japanese cuisine. It's naturally high in glutamates and is often used to make dashi (soup stock), imparting a rich, savory flavor to dishes.These options can enhance the flavor of foods similarly to MSG while being gluten-free and derived from natural sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can celiacs eat glutinous rice flour?
Celiacs can generally eat glutinous rice flour safely. Despite its name, glutinous rice flour does not contain gluten. It is made from a type of short-grain rice that becomes sticky when cooked. However, celiacs should always check product labels to ensure there's no cross-contamination with gluten-containing grains during processing.
What's the difference between rice flour and glutinous rice flour?
Rice flour is made from regular rice grains, while glutinous rice flour comes from sticky or sweet rice. Glutinous rice flour has a higher starch content, making it stickier when cooked. Rice flour produces a lighter, more delicate texture in baked goods, while glutinous rice flour creates a chewier, more elastic consistency. Despite its name, glutinous rice flour does not contain gluten and is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Does mochi rice flour have gluten?
Mochi rice flour does not contain gluten. It is made from glutinous rice, which, despite its name, is actually gluten-free. This type of rice is sticky when cooked, but the stickiness comes from its high starch content, not from gluten. Mochi rice flour is safe for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to consume.
Is glutinous rice flour healthy?
Glutinous rice flour can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation. It is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. However, it is high in carbohydrates and calories, so it should be eaten sparingly by those watching their weight or blood sugar levels. Like most foods, its healthiness depends on how it's prepared and consumed as part of an overall balanced diet.

Our Expert

Drs. Ilse van Asperen

Is an Orthomolecular Therapist, Nutritional Coach & Professional Editor
Drs. Ilse van Asperen is a medical doctor specialising in orthomolecular therapy and nutritional coaching. With a background in public and clinical health research and management, she focuses on addressing the root causes of health issues through diet, gut health, and stress reduction. As a professional editor for Little Helpers, she reviews all gluten-free content to ensure accuracy, safety, and scientific credibility. More about me

Our Sources

The information on this page is based on reputable health and nutrition organisations, ensuring accuracy and reliability for anyone following a gluten-free diet. For further details, see the sources below.

Sources

  1. National Institutes of Health (NIH)

  2. Coeliac UK

  3. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

  4. Mayo Clinic

  5. World Health Organization (WHO)

  6. Celiac Disease Foundation

Experiences of our customers

Disclaimer: We do our best to provide accurate gluten information, but errors can happen. If you spot a mistake or have concerns, please contact us so we can make it right.