Month: October 2009

Tips for Enjoying Halloween with Food Restrictions

• Plan ahead!  When possible, look online for favorite candies and snacks and see if they are gluten free.  Some treats that are normally GF or allergen free have different ingredients in the special holiday versions, so always double check.
• Celiac Family has a nice list of candy which is GF and a list of those that are not.
• Kids with Food Allergies has a great resource for safe Halloween activities, games, tips, etc.  Although it’s not directed at people avoiding gluten, a lot of the strategies are the same.
• Here’s another list from Sure foods Living

Here are a few ideas to safely enjoy the celebrations:

• Stash safe bags of candy at friend’s houses for your child, and make that one of your first stops.
• Talk to teachers and parents about focusing parties around activities (like pumpkin carving, apple bobbing, costume contest) rather than just trick or treating.
• Pre-stock your Halloween bag with foods that are allowed for your child (and/or you) so that you can safely snack along the way.
• Have a trade in. Your child can trade the “gluten-y” candies and treats for “safe” treats, or games, stickers, yo-yos, toys, prizes, special outings, etc. You can either stash the problem candy somewhere out of reach, or donate it to the foodbank.  Oriental Trading company has a bunch of inexpensive fun toys.

Start planning ahead for the holidays:

I know it’s only October, but it’s a good time to start thinking about the holidays.  You can make life easier by just making sure you/your hostess gets a gluten free brand of turkey.  I’ve got a Turkey list here, which I will update again as we get closer to the holidays.

Classes

GF and Healthy:
November 14th, 2009

11:00-1:00

We’ll talk about:

• Different gluten free whole grains and flours and how to use them
• Many GF ways to get fiber
• Easy ways to make meals and baked goods healthier
• Ways to make sure you’re getting the nutrients you need
• and much more!

This class is 2 hours and we will be making a delicious quinoa dish.  To register, see http://www.harriswholehealth.com/services

The cost is $25 per person or two for $40. *  If you have a flexible spending account (FSA) this is reimbursable with a receipt.

Hot Mulled Cider:

This is a family tradition and one of my favorites!
Serves: 8-10 people. Recipe may be halved or quartered.

Harris Whole Health offers individual sessions, family sessions and classes in Alexandria, VA to help people eat healthier and feel better! Whether you are dealing with Celiac Disease, food allergies, picky eaters, chronic illness, or if you just want to improve your diet, Cheryl can help you achieve your goals. For an appointment with Cheryl Harris, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist, click here or call 571-271-8742.