As we get back to some level of “normalcy” this year with folks getting Covid-19 vaccinated, travel restrictions lightening up, and businesses starting to fully open up, it’s can be challenging for people like me (and you!) who have severe food allergies to get out there and socialize. If you signed up for my latest newsletter, I talked about my recent hives outbreak, which was one of the worst episodes I’ve had in a really long time. Don’t forget to sign up for my weekly newsletter!
And in case you have any upcoming travel plans or social gatherings coming up, here are a few tips on how to socialize and travel if you live with food allergies.
TIP #1: PACK YOUR OWN SNACKS FOR THE PLANE RIDE OR ROAD TRIP
- Pack your favorite pantry gluten-free / paleo snacks in reusable bags or snack containers that are TSA friendly
- Some of my favorites include:
- Plantain chips
- Seaweed
- Jerky sticks
- Mixed nuts – Macadamia nuts, marcona almonds, cashews, etc.
- Paleo Granola mix
- Assorted fresh or freeze dried fruit – blueberries, strawberries, black berries, etc.
- Avocado
- Veggie sticks – carrots, cucumber, zucchini, etc.
- Hard boiled eggs
- Ham or turkey & cheese wraps
- Lara Bars
- Chocolate!
- Some of my favorites include:
TIP#2: FIND RESTAURANTS THAT OFFER ACTUAL GLUTEN-FREE OPTIONS ON THEIR MENU AND/OR FARM TO TABLE STYLE CUISINE.
- If the menu indicates “gluten-free or GF” on their menu, that means restaurant staff should theoretically be trained on the different types of food allergies. The restaurant should also more mindful of their ingredients and how to prepare food properly without cross contamination.
TIP #3: CALL THE RESTAURANT IN ADVANCE, MAKE A RESERVATION & ENSURE THAT YOUR FOOD ALLERGIES ARE NOTED WHEN SPEAKING TO THE HOST/HOSTESS.
- Communicate very clearly to the restaurant staff your food allergies, and make it clear about what will happen in case you do have a food reaction to a certain dish.
TIP#4: IN ANY SOCIAL SETTING WHERE FOOD IS INVOLVED, LET THE HOSTS KNOW ABOUT YOUR FOOD ALLERGIES. AND WHETHER OR NOT IT’S A POTLUCK, ALWAYS BRING YOUR OWN ALLERGY-FRIENDLY MEAL AND DON’T BE ASHAMED THAT YOU’RE EATING SOMETHING DIFFERENT FROM THE REST OF THE GUESTS.
TIP#5: SOCIALIZE BETWEEN THE HOURS OF BREAKFAST, LUNCH, OR DINNER IF IT’S TOO DIFFICULT TO FIND COMMON GROUND WITH YOUR PARTY. IT’S NOT WORTH THE STRESS SOMETIMES.
Those are my top 5 tips! I hope these are helpful, and if you have any questions or additional advice to add, feel free to leave a comment below.
Xx,
Jasmine