“How will I ever have dinner at a friend’s house?”
“Will I sound picky or rude if I ask to be accommodated?”
“How will I ever be able to have a normal party experience?”
These were the questions I asked as soon as I was diagnosed with celiac disease. I
felt a sense of dread, envisioning myself standing in front of a dinner party buffet
with an empty plate and not having anything to eat. In addition to my social
concerns, I was wary about eating foods prepared in non-gluten-free kitchens.
Since I jumped right into college only a short time after my celiac disease diagnosis,
I decided to gradually “test the waters” with attending parties.
My college, Emory University, offers a wonderful alumni-based program for
students called Dinner with 12 Strangers. Through the program, students of all ages can attend a free dinner party hosted in the homes of various alumni. After only a couple of weeks at Emory, I signed up for a dinner. I was anxious not only to meet
new people, but to become comfortable eating gluten-free in a group setting. The experience was incredibly positive, as my hosts researched gluten-free food preparation, and they made me a delicious pasta dinner and muffins for dessert.
Thanks to that dinner (and many others since last year) I no longer see parties as burdensome. I see every party as an opportunity to have a wonderful time. By
taking a few simple steps to prepare for parties, I feel like I can comfortably attend
everything from a dorm party to my father’s company crab feast. Thank goodness crabs are gluten free! I can party like the true Marylander that I am.
Here are a few simple tips that I always keep in mind before and during parties:
Prepare in advance
Not all parties are ideal environments for gluten-free eaters. I recommend contacting your host in advance to talk about food-related matters.
If the party is at a restaurant, call in advance or visit their website to search for their gluten-free offerings. Don’t be afraid to ask for the manager to learn more about their preparation methods in the kitchen. If a restaurant is willing to offer gluten-free options, they are likely willing to be accountable for their guests’ health, safety and satisfaction!
If it’s a party with alcohol and you’re so inclined, see if you can bring your own. There is an ever-growing market of gluten-free beers. While I seldom have a drink, I enjoy Green’s Dubble Dark Ale when I do.
“Emergency” Snacks
If you aren’t sure about what food will be available, it’s always safe to pack food that will be guaranteed gluten free. Depending on the size of my purse, I’ll bring a piece of fresh fruit and a bag of homemade trail mix, which consists of gluten free pretzels, dried fruit, dark chocolate chips. And if it seems quite doubtful that you’ll be able to eat anything at a party, grab yourself a gluten-free meal before you go.
Bring your own dish
When in doubt, bring something you know you (and others – if you choose to share!) will enjoy. In this case, I usually err on the side of homemade nachos… because who can resist this tray of homemade, cheese-covered goodness?
Make your health a priority
If you’re as sensitive to gluten as I am, it isn’t worth taking any chances. Never feel pressure to eat something at a party that you know will make you ill. Additionally, don’t be shy to ask about ingredients, preparation methods and potential cross-contamination. Feeling well is your first priority, so always keep your gluten-free needs in mind. That being said, it’s still so easy to enjoy a party as a gluten-free eater. With a little advanced preparation and a game plan in mind, you can navigate any gathering as a full and happy guest.
—————
Natalie Duggan is a Junior at Emory University in Atlanta, GA, pursuing a dual degree in Global Health and Journalism. Since her celiac disease diagnosis in 2011, she has enjoyed recipe development and helping others navigate the gluten-free lifestyle. Check out her photography portfolio on Flickr and her gluten-free pins on Pinterest.
