One of the biggest issues we face living a gluten-free life is dealing with cross-contamination or cross-contact.
This is something that can really knock us off track as we figure out our gluten-free journey to healthy living.
No matter how long you have been living gluten-free you ALWAYS need to be careful with cross-contact. As long as you educate yourself on what steps to put in place, and what to watch out for, you can minimize your risk.
Unfortunately, we cannot always eliminate this completely.
Just this past weekend, we celebrated my son’s birthday at one of our favorite restaurants. Mind you, we return to this restaurant as we usually have a great meal and experience. They listen, take care of us and we feel good. They typically do quite well with our meals.
This particular evening, we had a fabulous meal. Yet, just after eating, I felt my belly starting up – never a good sign (as many of you know!).
Right away I knew that . . .
. . . the bathroom is where you would find in the next few hours
. . . I would be in serious pain
. . . a sense of burning would be passing through my intestines
. . . this would keep me up most of the night
This is when you need to stop,
take care and recover your mindset.
Honestly, at times like this I can get angry: angry that this happens and angry that I am affected by it.
But, once I get over my unsettled mindset, and my body bounces back, I know I will be fine again. I know that MOST people do their best to help, but sometimes people just do not understand.
The thing to remember is that even your safe places have new chefs, new protocols, and new people who may not understand or take your allergy or intolerance seriously.
It is important to SPEAK UP EVERY TIME you go to a restaurant. This does not make you a nuisance! Remember that this is your health. Your life! You are important!
So . . . what did I do to recover
from cross-contact?
Self-Care is the Way
Turn to self-care to get through your reactions from cross-contamination. There are some who consult a pill, or have different methods to conquer being gluten-ed. Just beware of what’s on the market and do your research before you put something else in your mouth to set off your body.
Juicing to Soothe
First and foremost – I take out my juicer and make a green juice. I like to use 2-3 stalks of celery, one medium cucumber, a handful of parsley, and 1/2 a green apple. Push them all through the juicer, enjoy and relax. This is a very energizing drink and calming to your intestines.
Ginger Tea to Relax
Next, I make my ginger tea. Ginger has so many wonderful properties, most importantly, being an anti-inflammatory. Use whole fresh ginger root. Peel and slice about 1/4 – 1/2 inch of the root and place in your teacup. Pour in hot water and let sit for about 5 minutes. Sip and enjoy. Truly relaxing and soothing to your intestines.
Bone Broth to Calm
Another trick is to drink some bone broth or make homemade soup. Make a great pot of bone broth, or keep some in your freezer to quickly make a delicious soup. The broth will help calm your intestines and help you regain your energy and strength.
These steps help me combat cross-contact when it hits. Of course, a bit of extra rest and relaxation is also recommended.
Recently a mom told me that when her daughter was diagnosed with Celiac Disease their doctor told them she could never eat out again. This is a bit extreme and I feel a bit uneducated (especially to say to a child).
DO NOT let cross-contamination deter you from ever eating out again.
You will have good experiences in restaurants, and you will find your own safe places.
Remember to always speak up and ask your questions.
If you ever feel uncomfortable, there is probably a reason. Don’t eat at that establishment! You always have the option to leave. Always better to be safe than sorry!
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