Although your gluten free lifestyle is a necessity to your health you may occasionally find yourself in a pinch as to what to eat. We've all been in this situation.
This post is inspired by a patient, M.S., who struggled with finding quick gluten free meals. HIgh end organic healthy is not available in his work neighborhood. Winter, our office manager, who represents generation X is transitioning to gluten and dairy free in her diet. We are all on the continuum and there is a big learning curve. Winter recently ate a gluten-filled cookie and immediately felt sick for hours.
Keep in mind that I stress organic, non-GMO, anti-corporate food, but sometimes we need support as we are working to improve our diets. Life is not perfect so take these suggestions with a grain of sea salt. Costco, this country's largest distributor of organic foods, does offer several vegan, gluten free and dairy free prepared frozen foods. These bulk items can be stored in your freezer for those "I don't know what to eat days."
Your local super markets and even some fast food chains do offer gluten free choices. As someone who is suffering with a gluten allergy you may feel left out when friends want to grab a slice or make a late night fast food run. Well here is the good news! There are many variations of your foods that you can get without having to get specialty foods from you're local health food store, although we don't suggest making any of these items staples in your diet. Without further adue, here are some quick gluten free meal ideas!
Progresso Soup
- Soup is a quick and easy meal for lunch or dinner. Just be careful with this one, check the wrapping for the little beige banner that reads Gluten Free as pictured above because not all soup is Gluten Free!
- Do not make this a staple because you do need to be weary of canned foods. Be mindful, look for soups that contain no BPA, but in a "pinch" this is a great option.
- Some of Progresso's Gluten Free soup flavors include Split Pea with Ham, New England Clam Chowder, French Onion, Chicken and Rice and many more including low fat and low sodium options.
- Dominos Pizza offers a gluten free personal pie. This is great for when out with friends. Most pizza restuarants offering gluten free pizza require that you purchase a whole pie which could be a little uncomfortable if you are out in a group.But this personal pie is a great dinner portion.
- For obvious reasons Dominos Pizza is not something that should be eaten regularly but occasionally convenience is key.
- WARNING: Dominos Pizza does list a disclaimer under there gluten free pizza becuase it is possible to get some cross-contamination. So always use your judgement and bring an epi-pen if you are highly allergic.
Wendy's
- And lastly, if it is absolutely necessary that you consume fast food, Wendy's offers quite a few gluten free options!
- Some of Winter's favorites include: Baked Potato that comes with multiple topping options such as cheese and bacon or sour cream and chives, the Apple Pecan Chicken Salad, or a nice warm cup of Chili (especially during the winter months).
- Check out their online menu for some other choices!
There is nothing better then being prepared when living a gluten free life. Know your menus, and where there is food that won't make you sick and don't be shy to ask if a restaurant has a gluten free menu, they just might surprise you. When traveling, you can download food allergy cards in every language to show your wait staff.
If you feel like you may be suffering from Celiac Disease or Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity visit Second Nature Care and book your appointment with Dr. G, she understands your gluten allergy! We test for true allergies and food sensitivities. Find your road to relief! Share with us where you've found great gluten free menu options!
If you found this Blog helpful,check out some of our others on Gluten sensitivities!
- Life After Gluten
- Gluten Free for the Holidays- HARDCORE STRATEGIES
- Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity and Depression