This week’s gluten free soapbox comes from the personal archives. I’m absolutely certain that I’m not the only one who has encountered this, but it doesn’t seem to get talked about much…

Often times, it seems that people who are on strict gluten free diets get viewed as high maintenance, or picky. The constant need to check and double check ingredients tends to bother some people. The reports of contamination and reactions go unbelieved, and people give that knowing look when “gluten free” is mentioned.

I even had a doctor say that the worst that could happen with Celiac Disease is diarrhea, so not to Read More »

As we approach Thanksgiving, I encourage you to spend a little time each day reflecting on what you are thankful for. 

It’s easy to get caught up in our life challenges and to start focusing on unfairness and negativity.  We often discount the positive and over analyze and give importance to the negative.  Even when struggling with life’s challenges, if we can Read More »

Are you looking for gluten-free recipes for Thanksgiving?  If so, then we’ve got you covered.  The number of gluten-free recipes on blogs and websites are plentiful and offer a unique twist on traditional favorites.  Thanksgiving should not be a time of stress, but one where you enjoy gluten-free cooking/baking and sharing good food and conversation with the ones you love.

The list below is only a small sampling of gluten-free Thanksgiving recipes that can be found Read More »

For kids and adults, a rolled sugar cookie in a fun shape with colored sprinkles always produces a smile. Rolled sugar cookies can be made any time during the year but why not get ready now with the Holidays approaching? Don’t be discouraged when you see pre-made cookies in the store; this recipe is easy and delicious (and tastes even better!).

This recipe came from this website but there are a few things to make note of: Read More »

It is almost Thanksgiving and time for another holiday that centers around food.  This can be a time of stress for some on the gluten-free diet, but with a little research it is easy to determine which turkeys are gluten free.  It is important to note that fresh, plain unstuffed turkeys are naturally gluten free.  All regular stuffed turkeys contain gluten even if you don’t eat it because the gluten stuffing permeates the turkey while it is cooking.  Check the gravy packets very carefully to ensure they are gluten free as most are not safe and should be discarded.

We dined on a Honeysuckle White turkey last year and couldn’t believe how moist and flavorful it was, so that is now our turkey of choice.  If you question the status of a turkey call their customer service line for confirmation.  It is always better to confirm than to wonder or possibly eat a turkey that is not gluten free.  Here’s a list of turkey information from many major brands: Read More »

1)  Never assume.  Just because your host knows you’re on a special diet doesn’t mean they understand the nuances of your lifestyle.  Ask to see packages of foods before you eat them.

2)  Bring a protein-based dish to your next gathering.  That way, you know there will be something safe to eat, and you won’t be hungry.  Click here for a Holiday Read More »

Like many of you, this Examiner grew up having Honeybaked ham for the holidays.  It is such an easy meal and one that is a real crowd pleaser, so it was disturbing to learn that even thought the ham and the turkey are gluten free the glaze used on each contained gluten making it unsafe for those on the gluten-free diet.

Back in 2008, Honeybaked reformulated their glaze and removed gluten and soy making the hams/turkeys safe for those on a gluten-free diet, but Read More »

Once you’ve been diagnosed with Celiac disease or gluten intolerance, it is easy to become wrapped up in fear and anxiety about food.  This is absolutely normal as now there is an apparent “evil” out there just waiting to get ya. 

However, reality is it’s been getting you on a regular basis prior to being diagnosed or figuring it out on your own.  While the symptoms definitely suck, and for some people, can be debilitating at times, you Read More »

It's fun to make pancakes into the shape of pumpkins! Photo: A. Fothergill

If you live in the Bay area, you know pumpkins are in great abundance in the fall. Even if you don’t roast them yourself, pumpkin-themed recipes are as ubitquous to the bay area as clam chowder is to New England. To figuratively put the frosting on the cake, if you are eating gluten-free, don’t worry, this recipe is easy and delicious. Get out the cinnamon and the cloves…it’s time to make pancakes!

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pancakes

Mix dry ingredients first. Use any spices you like. Photo: A. Fothergill

1 ¾ cups milk (you can substitute soy or rice)

2 tablespoons vinegar

1 egg

3 tablespoons natural cane sugar or sucanat Read More »