Hello darlings,
while researching recipes online these last years I kept seeing more and more gluten free recipes. Then more and more friends and family were being told about gluten intolerance and the overall society’s understanding on the matter has grown exponentially in recent times. More and more sufferers are being diagnosed with those conditions. In turn, this can allow them to make the necessary dietary changes to live a normal life. But while those progressions have certainly made things easier, there’s no question that it can still be a challenge. Not least when children are involved.
Avoiding gluten is a 24/7 task, which is why you need to grab hold of any support possible. Unfortunately, those changes to your family’s diet can see grocery bills skyrocket also. Here are some things I've read that can help out.
Seek Support
Many people suspect that they are coeliac or have a similar condition. However, self-diagnosis can be problematic. Not only is there a chance that you’ll get it wrong, but you will also restrict yourself from gaining the available support.
Once diagnosed by a medical professional, it may be possible to gain certain foods on a prescription or heavy discount. Given that special food ranges can be up to twice the cost of normal foods, this support could make a huge difference to your weekly expenses. More importantly, you’ll know that your family is adapting to its nutritional needs.
Start Cooking From Scratch
Aside from those specialist ranges, knowing what is in your food can be a minefield. Quite frankly, it might be easier and cheaper to start using your kitchen more frequently. This way, you can be sure that you aren’t opening yourself up to irritation. Besides, the produce will often taste far better too.
Choosing the best bread machine can work wonders for your needs, especially as normal breads are one of the worst culprits. While you’re at, you could grow fruit and veg in the garden to further enhance your bid for healthy and intolerance-friendly nutrition.
Try Not To Be Restricted
An intolerance to gluten will inevitably throw up a few obstacles. If you’re not careful, this can ruin your family’s relationship with food, which can lead to poor nutrition choices and a feeling of alienation. After all, a love of food is something that all humans should share. Ask Nick! He's had a love affair with food since he was born, lol!
Helping your children expand their palates will open up your options as a family. Aside from anything else, creating a wider landscape also reduces the chances of food becoming repetitive and boring. For anyone in a situation where quite a lot of foods are out of bounds, that can be hugely rewarding. I've started my little one in solids just a month and a half ago and I strive to include everything (safe for her age) I can. I am preparing a post about it that will go live soon.
Maintain Enjoyment
Naturally, great taste forms the heartbeat of any positive food relationship. However, it’s not the only key factor to consider. Appearances, smells, and other elements all contribute to the overall eating experience. Getting creative in the kitchen can help bolster that bond with food, even if your list of ingredients is more limited than most.
You don’t necessarily have to embrace those artistic ideas on a daily basis. However, it will go a long way to helping your cause on special occasions and during social gatherings. If it helps restore a sense of normality, you’d be a fool to ignore those benefits.
Do you or a family member suffer from gluten intolerance? How do you cope? Do you have any advice to share?
Lot's of love
