Dining out should be fun, but for the estimated three million Americans diagnosed with celiac disease it’s a different story. In fact, researchers at Columbia University found that for 86 percent of celiac suffers, eating at a restaurant creates more stress than pleasure. What can you do? Follow a few simple rules and make your restaurant experience worry-free.
HAVE A SMALL SNACK BEFORE DINIING OUT. You don’t want to order when you’re starving. The hungrier you are, the more likely it will be that you’ll lose willpower and choose a dish even if you know it’s not good for you. (Bonus: While everyone around you is filling up on rolls, just sip water and think of all the calories you’re saving!)
KNOW WHAT’S GLUTEN-FREE AND WHAT’S NOT. If you’re recently diagnosed with celiac disease and you don’t have the drill down yet, bring a list. This should include a list of “bad grains” – wheat, rye, barley –containing gluten, a substance that causes and aggravates celiac disease.
PICK A RESTAURANT THAT OFFERS LOTS OF CHOICES. There are even eating establishments that are celiac friendly. Go on-line and type in: www.glutenfreeregistry.com. Or call the restaurant of your choice ahead of time and be sure they offer gluten-free choices on their menu.
