Food is more than eating. Food is powerful. Its social, its cultural, it is how we show love and support. There’s no wonder that food is involved in so many get togethers.

Before food sensitivities, or a celiac diagnosis, this was awesome! But after… it becomes a little harder to navigate.

After years and years of being gluten free (cross contamination sensitive) I would love to share with you the best bits of advice that I have learned over the years.

Never come empty handed. Bring something that is delicious, and gluten free to share. Bringing food means you’re actively involved in the potluck process! And being involved feels good. There is no reason to be excluded and this is a great chance to show other people how good gluten free food can be! Scoop yourself a portion at the start… but realize that your dish may become cross contaminated as the event goes on.

Don’t be shy. If there are food items there that you KNOW are gluten free (you have been told how the food has been prepared or it is pre packaged) then serve yourself first. It might feel weird, but everyone else is going to be ok with this. Once everyone else starts grabbing their plates, the risk of cross contamination will be very high. Avoid this by going first.

If you’re not sure about something, don’t eat it! Unless its pre packaged or you know and trust the prep method behind this dish and all of the ingredients it contains, just don’t bother. Enjoy the company, and don’t risk getting sick.

Bring a dish for yourself! Whenever I bring a dish to share, I portion a little into a smaller container that is only for my own consumption. That way I know I have something safe to eat at the event.

There’s nothing wrong with eating before you go or pocketing yourself some snacks to have while you are there. Keeping some nuts, bars, a piece of fruit, or chips in your bag for if you’re feeling snacky is just smart planning.

When it comes right down to it, you’re going to the event for the company, and not for the food. It sounds easy, and its not. Eventually this will get easier!

Be patient with yourself, because its not easy, especially in the beginning. Have the same love and compassion for yourself that you would offer someone else. And know that sometimes, its ok to not be ok.

As always, wishing you health and healing along your journey!