Navigating Life with Celiac and Severe Peanut/Treenut Allergies: Food and Meal Planning Tips
A diagnosis of celiac disease often brings significant changes to one's way of eating and lifestyle. Coupled with severe peanut/treenut allergies, the challenge becomes even more daunting. However, there are plenty of delicious and safe options available for those navigating this path. In this article, we explore various food choices, snack recipes, and tips for meal planning that can still satisfy your cravings and nourish your body.
Replacing Everyday Staple Foods
If you have been diagnosed with celiac disease, it's important to avoid all sources of wheat and wheat products. Instead, consider switching to other grains such as millets. Miller has some amazing recipes that use these versatile grains. For those with severe allergies, it's important to check the labels and ingredients lists of all products to ensure safety.
Snack Options: Opt for lots of fresh greens and salads. Sprouts and homemade dehydrated tomato chips make excellent snacks. For those who miss Oreos, there are gluten-free alternatives available. Check YouTube for creative flavor combinations and tips for making your snacks and meals exciting and satisfying.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of green juices can provide vital nutrients and keep you hydrated. Green juices, in particular, are rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins.
Specific Allergies and Preferences
Those with a wheat allergy but not diagnosed with celiac disease can still experience severe symptoms. For instance, my family avoids wheat, and I have a son with a severe peanut allergy. Despite these restrictions, there are still many delicious options available. Many gluten-free crackers and pasta options are available, and Italian brands like Glutino are favorites among many.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Opt for corn-based pasta, which is a good alternative to wheat-based pasta. We also enjoy gluten-free frozen pizzas, which can be enhanced by preheating a pizza stone in a really hot oven to achieve a crispy crust. Other gluten-free pizza options include vegetable toppings and personal-sized pies that are perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Snack Varieties: Oven fries are a fantastic snack option, especially when made with a variety of root vegetables and different spice blends. These can be made from fresh potatoes or pre-cut frozen fries, but always check the ingredients for any hidden sources of gluten. Dips like hummus, tzatziki, or sour cream mixed with horseradish can enhance the flavor of the fries and provide a tangy to creamy balance. Our favorite spices include BBQ, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
Sweet Treats: While baking can be challenging with allergies, there are still ways to satisfy a sweet tooth. A piece of European chocolate without nuts can be a satisfying choice. For a more interactive treat, consider dipping fresh strawberries in a little bowl of sugar, allowing everyone to have their own serving. The combination of sweet, tart, juicy, and crunchy is simply delicious.
Exploring Unconventional Treatments
For those looking to manage their celiac disease more effectively, consider exploring unconventional treatments such as Helminthic Therapy. This approach involves the controlled and supervised reintroduction of parasitic worms, like hookworms, to achieve a modulated immune response. It's important to note that this is not a mainstream treatment and should only be considered under the supervision of a medical professional.
Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle. With careful planning and creativity, it's possible to enjoy a wide range of delicious and safe foods while managing your health conditions.