Tag: Gluten breakdown

For most individuals, the transit time for food through the digestive system is 12 to 72 hours, meaning the gluten protein itself is processed and eliminated within this timeframe. However, the real question of how long does gluten take to break down is more complex for those with a gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, where physical elimination is just one part of the story.

Studies have shown that long fermentation can significantly reduce complex gluten proteins in dough, making them more digestible for individuals with certain sensitivities. This ancient process leverages wild yeast and bacteria to transform flour, affecting gluten in profound ways.

Human digestive enzymes, like proteases, are not fully equipped to break down the specific proline- and glutamine-rich peptides found in gluten. Understanding what can break down gluten is crucial for those with sensitivities and for innovations in food science.