Did you know that it is estimated that 3 million people in America are living with Celiac disease? In addition to that number, there are many more that suffer from some type of a sensitivity to gluten. Although the numbers are high, there are still so many people and organizations that are unaware of the need for accommodations for these gastrointestinal difficulties. Because of this, sufferers of gluten sensitivity or Celiac disease may find themselves in difficult situations. Read on to learn a few ways to combat such issues.
Staying in Someone Else’s Home
Under normal circumstances, it would be considered rude to stay as a guest in someone’s home and not eat their food. However, if you suffer from Celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, it may be necessary. If you believe that your host would be offended by your bringing additional food into their home, it may be a good idea to explain your medical condition in advance and that gluten free foods are necessary to your health. They may offer to supply options of these foods for you, and at the very least they will understand why you brought your own foods (and it wasn’t simply that you didn’t like the food they were offering).
School Lunches
If you have a child with a gluten sensitivity of some sort, you may opt for purchasing your own gluten free foods to pack for a lunch every day. However, in most schools if you advise the lunch coordinator of your child’s medical conditions and requirements, the school will accommodate those needs. Most schools will try to keep these foods as similar to the other children’s as possible, whether they serve gluten-free pasta or some other type of similar food. If your child would feel like they stand out when being served something slightly different than everyone else, sending a lunch from home may be the best way to go.
Gatherings or Dinner Parties
If you are attending a gathering or a dinner party where you have no control over the food options, you can still attend the event without feeling uncomfortable. You can inform the host of your sensitivities to gluten, and offer to bring a gluten-free food as a side. If you aren’t close enough to the host that you feel comfortable doing this, another option is to fill up on a meal at home and just nibble at the gathering. Sharing one plate with a friend or date will make it less obvious that you are leaving food behind, without you having 
to eat foods that might disrupt your gastrointestinal balance.
There are many other situations you may find yourself in that require you to either divulge your private health information or provide your own gluten-free foods. Use the tips above to help manage your gluten-free living without interfering with activities and situations involving food.
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