Tips for Gluten-Free Newbies

Your doctor has just told you that you that all of your health problems can be blamed on celiac disease and you feel your world turning upside down.  All of a sudden that bag of bagels has to go and you can't cross contaminate foods that have gluten with glutenous foods in your own kitchen.  Daunting though this sounds, there are some safe, easy, and proven ways to make your transition into the gluten-free life style as painless as possible. 

First of all focus on foods that are naturally gluten free.  We're sure you'll find that the majority of healthy, tasty foods that you normally eat do not contain gluten; any fresh meats, vegetables, fruits, and many everyday dairy items are safe and I bet you never even thought about them being gluten-free.  Next think about your kitchen: If you're cooking for just you it's going to be easy.  If you have a roommates or a family that are going to be keeping regular breads and other gluten-containing items around you should come up with a system to avoid cross contamination.  One way is to designate certain cutting boards or kitchen utensils as "gluten-free"  and to make sure that you clean out toaster ovens of bread crumbs before you put in your gluten-free bread. 

Also make sure that people in your household are not double dipping knives that have breadcrumbs on them into all of your spreads so you don't risk getting sick.  Some people's allergies are very sensitive while others have a milder reaction, but everything you can do to avoid being contaminated by even a little bit of gluten will be effective towards keeping you happy and healthy. 

And, don't forget about Bhuja snack mixes! They are naturally gluten-free, packed with nutrients and of course, delicious! 

For more useful tips go to: http://www.godairyfree.org/201102284941/News/Nutrition-Headlines/Ask-Alisa-I-have-to-go-dairy-free-and-gluten-free.-Where-do-I-start.html OR visit: http://www.sun-sentinel.com/features/food/fl-food-side-030211-20110303,0,3800924.story

Comments

[eye lift]

These are nice tips. Gluten, when dried and ground into powder and added to flour dough.

[facial surgery]

Yogurt is not always gluten free. Natural yogurt is, yes, but not always the yogurt flavor. Dannon is one of those who say only their yogurt is gluten free. Yoplait label their gluten-free varieties "gluten free".