How To Prepare for a Gluten Free Holiday
So You’ve decided to take the plunge and cut gluten out of your diet? Good for you! There are a ton of health benefits to limiting your gluten intake. But with the holidays coming up, you may be wondering how you’ll be able to enjoy all your favorite seasonal festivities. How will you be able to enjoy the office holiday party or Christmas cookie exchange? What about Thanksgiving dinner? Don’t worry. We’ve got everything you need to prepare for a gluten free holiday.
Communication is Key
If you’ve recently gone gluten free, friends and family may have questions. Be willing to talk to them about why you made this choice and the importance of your dietary restrictions. While they may have questions, most people who are willing to host a meal with you as a guest should be willing to accommodate you. You can even take it a step further and offer them some of your favorite tasty gluten free recipes so they know exactly what to serve you.
Contribute
If your loved ones just aren’t getting it or, for whatever reason, are unable to properly avoid contaminating your food with gluten, you can always offer to help with the meal or bring something for everyone to enjoy. Taking charge and making something will alleviate any stress or concern that you may accidentally come into contact with gluten. Plus, it allows you to bring something everyone can enjoy to the meal. It’s a nice bonding experience and a good way to show your friends and family that gluten free food can be just as tasty.
Ask for Ingredient Transparency
Even if people are unable to accommodate a gluten free diet, most people are at least willing to tell you what’s in the food that’s in front of you. People with the best intentions may not know what kind of ingredients include gluten so if someone is unfamiliar with a gluten free diet, it’s best to double check, even if they say it’s gluten free. Read the labels of anything store bought and give loved ones a heads up for anything they may be making. If you’re unsure, it’s best to avoid it.
Serve Yourself First
There’s no shame in eating before the party if you’re unsure if there will be anything there you can eat. Even if there are gluten free options, it’s a good idea to serve your own food first to avoid cross contamination. Be the first in line at the buffet and explain to your friends you can’t risk crossover. Most people will understand. If all else fails, you can always bring a nice gluten free snack to munch on.
Being gluten free during the holidays doesn’t have to be challenging. At the end of the day, though many festivities center around food, it’s not the reason for the season. Consider what this time of year means to you and hold on to that. While you’re at it, don’t forget the power that comes with making your own food and knowing what’s in it. If you want to enjoy some gluten free holiday treats, pick up some gluten free baking mixes from Coconut Whisk. Shop now!