Tag: gluten-free

Why Is Eating Out So Hard When You’re Gluten-Free?

Last Saturday was a special day—my daughter’s graduation party! It was filled with love, laughter, and meaningful conversations. One of those conversations really stuck with me.

As we chatted with family (yes, even though I’m no longer married to her dad, I still consider his family an extension of mine 😊), the topic of gluten sensitivities, celiac disease, and even food dyes came up. It’s something I’ve had personal experience with—both my daughter and I have eliminated most gluten from our diets due to health concerns, and the difference has been noticeable.

For me, avoiding gluten hasn’t felt overly difficult. I enjoy cooking and baking from scratch, and I’m not someone who eats out often. But during our conversation, it hit me—for people who are more social, who love dinners out and catching up with friends over a meal, navigating food sensitivities can be incredibly challenging.

There are so many people dealing with food sensitivities—not just to gluten, but also artificial dyes, MSG, excess sugar, and high-fructose corn syrup, which are rampant in most restaurant foods. Shouldn’t we be able to go out and enjoy a meal without fearing a reaction or spending the night feeling awful?

So, I’m Taking Action.

I’m starting a mission to find and support local restaurants that are gluten-free friendly and celiac-aware. Not big chains—but smaller, community-focused places that might actually listen and care.

Over the next few months, I’ll be reaching out to restaurant owners and managers, sharing what I’ve learned, and asking if they’re open to adding more inclusive, allergen-aware options to their menus. I’ll share what I find here on the blog.

And Here’s Where You Come In…

Let’s start a movement—because change starts with us.
If you or someone you love has struggled with food sensitivities, don’t stay silent. Speak up at your favorite local restaurants. Ask questions. Share your needs. Encourage them to consider healthier, safer options.

🌱 When more of us raise our voices, we create momentum—and that’s how real change happens.

✨ Follow along for updates as I connect with local restaurants, share tips, and post progress.
My full website is coming soon—and I can’t wait to grow this community with you.