Living gluten-free can be challenging but it becomes significantly easier with the right resources and community support. Whether you have celiac disease or a gluten intolerance, there is an abundance of apps, community resources, and online shopping options that can help! I’m sharing my favorites here.
1. Gluten-Free Apps:
Find Me Gluten Free:
This app is a game-changer – it allows you to find nearby gluten-free restaurants, read reviews by other gluten-intolerant and celiac folks, and filter by specific gluten-free offerings. You can create lists, add your favorite gluten-free spots, and leave (hopefully positive) reviews of more spots for others to check out. I find this app especially helpful in planning travel. Download the app.
Gluten-Free Scanner:
This app is so helpful when grocery shopping. Just scan the item’s barcode and it can quickly tell you if it’s gluten-free or not. Just note that you should always read the label yourself, as it’s not always accurate. Download the app.
Google:
It might seem obvious, but if I’m unsure about a product, I just google “company + product name + gluten-free”
2. Community Groups:
Gluten-Free & Celiac Facebook groups:
There are so many amazing Facebook groups. Some are worldwide, like Celiac Travel and Celiac Disease Support Group, and some are locally based like Gluten Free & Top 8 New York City. Use the search bar in your Facebook app to find these or ones like these!
Gluten-Free Content Creators:
Bloggers and social media influencers will share gluten-free recipes, product reviews, and lifestyle tips. Engaging and following along with these online communities can help you stay connected, get reviews, and find new products. (Like this blog!)
3. Online Grocery Shopping:
Thrive Market:
Thrive Market has a wide range of gluten-free foods and products at discounted prices, with an emphasis on organic brands. They have a dedicated gluten-free section on their website, making it easy for you to browse through various options. They also have a “frozen foods” section that is now available. (Get 40% off your first order through my friend invitation here*.)
Amazon:
If you’re already ordering off Amazon, it can make gluten-free life just a little easier when you can get your favorites added to your next order. They have carry tons on my favorite gluten-free brands, that might not always be stocked at your regular grocery store. (Unless you’re lucky enough to live close to one with a really big gluten-free section. (These brownies* and these protein shakes* are some of my favorite Amazon gluten-free finds.)
4. Medical Sites & Organizations
Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG):
GIG is a non-profit organization supporting individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerances. Their website offers a wealth of resources, including educational materials, a gluten-free certification program for food manufacturers, and a directory of gluten-free restaurants. Visit their site.
Celiac Disease Foundation (CDF):
CDF is another reputable organization providing support to those with celiac disease. They offer a vast range of resources, including recipes, research updates, and a team of registered dietitians available for consultations. Visit their site.
With the right gluten-free resources, living gluten-free lifestyle can become much more manageable. Apps like Find Me Gluten Free and Gluten Free Scanner help you dine out and shop with confidence, while community resources like GIG and CDF offer support, education, and guidance. Additionally, online shopping options such as Thrive Market and Amazon make it convenient to access a wide range of gluten-free products.
Did I leave one of your favorite resources off the list? Send me a message or comment below!
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