Here at Ancient Harvest, we are committed to creating wholesome, plant-based products that everyone – even those with serious food allergies or dietary restrictions – may enjoy. We believe in the delicious, nourishing power of gluten-free ancient grains, and that living gluten-free does not mean living flavor-free. In honor of May being Celiac Disease Awareness Month and for anyone looking to restrict or eliminate gluten, here are some of our favorite tips for gluten-free living:
Ask for help.
If you’re just starting to live gluten-free, you might find yourself feeling a bit overwhelmed. Luckily, there is a wealth of resources these days – you just need to know how to find them. Facebook groups, gluten-free bloggers, magazines like Living Without, Delight and Simply Gluten Free – these are all fantastic resources. Additionally, consider meeting with a nutritionist to get answers to your questions and establish guidelines for your new gluten-free life.
Read the labels.
Anyone who is gluten-free or living with other dietary restrictions eventually becomes a pro at reading labels. Be sure to double-check everything, even things you wouldn’t ordinarily think would contain gluten, before purchasing.
Look beyond food.
Speaking of things that you wouldn’t ordinarily think would contain gluten: You might be surprised at how many household products – from shampoo to supplements – may be unsafe to those living with celiac disease. Buying toothpaste or moisturizer for a friend who is gluten-free? Read the label first – and seek out brands or companies that specialize in manufacturing gluten-free products.
Go high-tech.
Apps like Find Me Gluten Free provide a valuable guide, especially when traveling. Looking for others to add to your smartphone before hitting the road? Check out this list of 10 Apps to Keep You Gluten-Free.
Plan ahead.
Packing safe and tasty snacks, checking the menu of a restaurant before arriving, alerting a dinner party host to your needs – these are all things that, like reading labels, become second nature to those living gluten-free. Practice makes perfect, and you’ll soon learn that with a little foresight and planning, living a gluten-free lifestyle can be fun and easy – and full of delicious food.
DIY.
Of course, the best way to know for sure that what you are putting into or on your body is gluten-free is to make it yourself. If you’re not typically the DIY type and are feeling a bit intimidated, start small with these simple gluten-free cooking tips. You’ll see that making things yourself doesn’t have to be difficult, and that it can actually be a lot of fun. Seek out additional resources via Google or Pinterest, and you’ll soon be making everything from face masks to cleaning products.
Learn more about gluten-free ancient grains and Ancient Harvest products on our blog or at AncientHarvest.com.
