What is gluten? The term "gluten free" has become a common way to identify and label foods. Gluten refers to the proteins found in wheat, which is often used to make flour. Foods that generally contain gluten include: bread, baked goods, pasta, and cereal. Why is gluten bad? Some people have celiac disease which is an autoimmune disorder that causes damage to the small intestine when gluten is consumed. Approximately 1 in 100 people have celiac disease, but up to 40% of the p