Tips for Gluten-Free Shopping

The challenge of gluten free shopping, when first being undertaken is a difficult and many times overwhelming task, but one that needs to be done nonetheless. Adopting new shopping routines that encompass finding new stores and getting into the habit of intense label reading are among just a couple of the new tasks that you'll need to incorporate into your normal shopping routine. I've adjusted to gluten-free shopping but it's been almost 2 years since my gluten free journey began. Here are some of the tips for gluten-free shopping that I've found helpful.

Don't Rush

If you've got a limited amount of time to shop for groceries, it's probably best to hold off on your shopping trip. It's been my experience that doing gluten free shopping while in a rush can have some painful consequences for those of us with celiac disease and gluten intolerance. In our haste we're likely to miss ingredients that are harmful to us and cause a reaction. We all know what that's like right?

Be Familiar With Brands

There's no doubt that in your journey living gluten-free, you'll become familiar with gluten free brand names that are safe choices for you or your celiac or gluten free loved one. Especially in the beginning of this journey, dive in head first to seeking our all those brands that are gluten free friendly. Knowing what brands to look for will help you feel empowered about actively solving the problem of what to eat while on this diet. Once I knew some of these brands, I felt less hopeless and saw all of the numerous options.

It's important to know that the FDA still hasn't tightened up their criteria for gluten-free labeling, although those of us with this problem are always putting the pressure on, so knowing what brands are manufactured with ingredients that are harmful for you or your loved one is paramount.

Check for Changes

Never assume that just because you've found some products that are "safe" there will never be changes that could become a problem at some point. I have seen other gluten-free friends and aquaintences encounter this issue a number of times. Getting too comfortable with products can get you into trouble if manufacturing changes are made or other additives are implemented and we haven't stayed vigilant about our label reading.

Bring Your Cell Phone

Don't get caught with questions about gluten-free products while your shopping without your cell phone. Keep your cell phone handy for questions regarding any product changes you find. I had this problem with a product I used long term, and noticed changes in on one of my shopping trips. I didn't have my cell phone with me and was unable to purchase the product on that trip because I didn't want to take a chance. It was a safe change as I found out later, but I could've purchased that product on the spot had I brought my cell.