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Gluten Free Information
What does it mean to be gluten-free?
The term gluten free can often be confusing, especially for people just starting out with this health change. We think of gluten as a substance (not just a grain) that is in foods that helps it thicken or have a stretchy, chewy texture. Typically this will be breads, sauces and pastas. You can find also find gluten in personal items such as cosmetics and cleaners. The key is to read the ingredients of what you purchase and look for these key words wheat, malt, kamut, oat, rye, barley, spelt. This is by no means an exhaustive list and you can learn more by clicking here.
What about eating out?
As restaurants become more aware of gluten-free and construct dedicated gluten-free menus, going out to eat becomes easier. Always check with your server about the ingredients and when in doubt stick to basic meat and vegetables. Click on these links to search for gluten free restaurants here and here. You can also prepare food in advance to bring to restaurants or social events.
What will gluten free mean for me and my family?
Many families choose to go completely gluten-free but if you chose not to, designate an area to keep cooking utensils and pans separate for gluten-free cooking. Also, purchasing a separate toaster or toaster oven will make switching between gluten-free and non gluten-free cooking much easier.
How do I grocery shop?
Becoming gluten-free can be daunting so to make the process easier, seek out grocery stores that have sections dedicated to gluten-free/wheat-free eating. Click here for suggestions of stores in the Atlanta-area that carry gluten-free frozen and shelf-stable goods. Preparing meals with meats and fresh vegetables is also a safe way to eat gluten-free. Many recipes that have 1 cup or less of flour can be substituted with brown rice or white rice flour and will not affect the flavor.
What resources are available for me?
The internet is a useful place to search for more information about how to live a gluten-free lifestyle. Finding a local celiac disease or gluten intolerance group will provide additional support. Find ways to explain to friends and family the adjustments you have made to your diet. Most of all remember that this is a positive change for your health.
Gluten Free Information
What does it mean to be gluten-free?
The term gluten free can often be confusing, especially for people just starting out with this health change. We think of gluten as a substance (not just a grain) that is in foods that helps it thicken or have a stretchy, chewy texture. Typically this will be breads, sauces and pastas. You can find also find gluten in personal items such as cosmetics and cleaners. The key is to read the ingredients of what you purchase and look for these key words wheat, malt, kamut, oat, rye, barley, spelt. This is by no means an exhaustive list and you can learn more by clicking here.
What about eating out?
As restaurants become more aware of gluten-free and construct dedicated gluten-free menus, going out to eat becomes easier. Always check with your server about the ingredients and when in doubt stick to basic meat and vegetables. Click on these links to search for gluten free restaurants here and here. You can also prepare food in advance to bring to restaurants or social events.
What will gluten free mean for me and my family?
Many families choose to go completely gluten-free but if you chose not to, designate an area to keep cooking utensils and pans separate for gluten-free cooking. Also, purchasing a separate toaster or toaster oven will make switching between gluten-free and non gluten-free cooking much easier.
How do I grocery shop?
Becoming gluten-free can be daunting so to make the process easier, seek out grocery stores that have sections dedicated to gluten-free/wheat-free eating. Click here for suggestions of stores in the Atlanta-area that carry gluten-free frozen and shelf-stable goods. Preparing meals with meats and fresh vegetables is also a safe way to eat gluten-free. Many recipes that have 1 cup or less of flour can be substituted with brown rice or white rice flour and will not affect the flavor.
What resources are available for me?
The internet is a useful place to search for more information about how to live a gluten-free lifestyle. Finding a local celiac disease or gluten intolerance group will provide additional support. Find ways to explain to friends and family the adjustments you have made to your diet. Most of all remember that this is a positive change for your health.
