What does a gluten-free diet eliminate?

A gluten-free diet specifically targets the elimination of gluten, a protein found in certain grains. The correct answer highlights that it removes wheat, oats, rye, barley, and their derivatives. This is crucial for individuals with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, as consuming gluten can trigger harmful reactions in their bodies.

Wheat, which is the primary grain containing gluten, is well-known, but oats can also be a concern depending on their processing and potential cross-contamination with gluten-containing grains. Rye and barley likewise contain gluten, making them unsuitable for a gluten-free diet. It's also notable that products derived from these grains, such as certain breads, pastas, and baked goods, must be avoided.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the scope of a gluten-free diet. While it does not eliminate all grains, it specifically focuses on those that contain gluten, so saying it eliminates all grains is misleading. Similarly, stating that it only eliminates wheat products overlooks the crucial inclusion of other gluten-containing grains. Dairy products are also not a focus of gluten elimination, as they do not contain gluten, which is why that option is not relevant in this context. This understanding is important for maintaining a healthy gluten-free lifestyle while ensuring a balanced diet.