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TL;DR
Pizza is not inherently gluten-free, as traditional pizza dough is made with wheat flour which contains gluten. However, gluten-free pizza options are available, typically made with alternative flours such as rice flour, almond flour, or cauliflower, allowing those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease to enjoy pizza as well.
Quick Tips
1Source of protein: Cheese and meat toppings provide protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
2Lycopene intake: Tomato sauce is rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease.
3Calcium source: Cheese provides calcium, important for bone health.
# In This Article
3 sectionsQuick navigation to each section of this article:
1 Benefits of Pizza
Source of protein: Cheese and meat toppings provide protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
Jump2 Who should avoid Pizza
People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity (unless the pizza has a gluten-free crust)
Jump3 Gluten Free Alternatives
Here are five gluten-free alternatives to pizza, along with short descriptions:
JumpBenefits of Pizza
| Benefits of Pizza |
|---|
| Source of protein: Cheese and meat toppings provide protein, essential for muscle building and repair. |
| Lycopene intake: Tomato sauce is rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. |
| Calcium source: Cheese provides calcium, important for bone health. |
| Vegetable consumption: Veggie toppings can increase your intake of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. |
| Complex carbohydrates: Whole grain crusts can provide fiber and sustained energy. |
| Probiotic potential: Some pizzas with fermented ingredients (like certain cheeses) may offer probiotic benefits. |
| Vitamin C: Tomato sauce and some vegetable toppings provide vitamin C, supporting immune function. |
| Vitamin B: Ingredients like cheese and whole grain crusts can provide B vitamins, important for metabolism. |
| Selenium: Some pizza ingredients, particularly mushrooms, can be good sources of selenium, an important antioxidant. |
| Balanced meal potential: When topped with a variety of ingredients, pizza can provide a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.Remember, these benefits are maximized when pizza is made with nutritious ingredients and consumed as part of a balanced diet. |
Who should avoid Pizza
| Who should avoid Pizza |
|---|
| People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity (unless the pizza has a gluten-free crust) |
| Individuals with lactose intolerance (unless the pizza is made without cheese or with lactose-free alternatives) |
| Those with dairy allergies (unless the pizza is made without cheese or with non-dairy alternatives) |
| People following a low-carb or ketogenic diet |
| Individuals on a low-sodium diet (as pizza can be high in sodium) |
| Those trying to lose weight or maintain a calorie-restricted diet |
| People with acid reflux or GERD (as tomato sauce and high-fat toppings can trigger symptoms) |
| Individuals with certain food allergies (depending on the toppings) |
| Those following a vegan or plant-based diet (unless the pizza is specially made to be vegan) |
| People with diabetes who need to closely monitor their carbohydrate intake |
| Individuals with certain cardiovascular conditions who need to limit saturated fat intake |
| Those following specific religious or cultural dietary restrictionsRemember that some of these groups may be able to enjoy specially made pizzas that cater to their dietary needs or restrictions. |
Gluten Free Alternatives
Here are five gluten-free alternatives to pizza, along with short descriptions:
| Gluten Free Alternatives |
|---|
| Zucchini pizza boats: Hollowed-out zucchini halves filled with pizza toppings and cheese, offering a fresh, low-carb alternative that's packed with nutrients. |
| Portobello mushroom pizzas: Large portobello mushroom caps used as a base for pizza toppings, providing a meaty texture and earthy flavor while being naturally gluten-free. |
| Polenta pizza: A pizza crust made from cornmeal, which is naturally gluten-free. It offers a unique texture and slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with various toppings. |
| Chickpea flour pizza: Also known as socca, this flatbread-style pizza is made with chickpea flour, providing a nutty flavor and high protein content while remaining gluten-free. |
Health Information
? Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions1 Does pizza contain gluten?
2 How do I know if my pizza is gluten-free?
3 Does pizza have more gluten than bread?
4 Can celiacs eat Dominos pizza?
Our Expert
Drs. Ilse van Asperen
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. Read more on Drs. Ilse van Asperen's own website
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.