With May being Celiac Awareness Month, I want to offer solutions to some of the most common problems those of us living with Celiac Disease deal with.

Dining out can be a daunting experience for individuals with celiac disease, as they must navigate a culinary landscape filled with potential gluten hazards. Despite the growing awareness of gluten intolerance and celiac disease, many restaurants still struggle to provide adequate gluten-free options and adhere to strict preparation practices.

This lack of accommodation can leave those of us with celiac disease feeling frustrated, isolated, and anxious about the safety of their meals when eating out.

As a result, dining out becomes more than just a culinary experience; it becomes a challenging endeavor that requires careful planning, communication, and advocacy to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.

Solution

Research restaurants in advance that offer gluten-free menus or are knowledgeable about gluten-free preparation practices. When dining out, communicate your dietary needs clearly to the server and ask questions about menu items and potential cross-contamination risks.

Be flexible and willing to customize dishes to accommodate your needs, and consider bringing a gluten-free restaurant card or app to help communicate your requirements effectively. With proactive planning, open communication, and a bit of advocacy, individuals with celiac disease can enjoy dining out safely and confidently.

Be watching for more information during the month of May addressing our common challenges and the solutions to minimize these challenges.

MY OWN EXPERIENCE 

Be sure to check out my book, Journey of a Celiac’s Soul: A Second Chance at Life.

This book is a journey into my experience with the Catholic Church and those of us challenged with the Eucharist. Find out the truth about how this impacts those of us who love our Church and yet, are confronted with obstacles along the way.