Are you stressed out because you’re planning holiday meals for a family member with food allergies?  Or worried because you recently received a food allergy diagnosis yourself?

Gluten, dairy, soy, peanuts…food allergens are all around us.   But you can have a fun, tasty, low-stress holiday anyway.

*1) Plan ahead*.  If you’ll be going to restaurants for parties planned by

others, read the menu on restaurant’s website, and locate one or more items you can eat.  If you have ingredient questions, call and ask them now so you won’t have to make a big deal out of it in front of the other guests.   If you’re the one throwing the party, choose allergy friendly restaurants.

*Happy Cow* is a great place for egg and dairy allergies, while *FindMeGlutenFree*  is a perfect for celiac and gluten sensitivity.

*2) Choose allergy-free versions of your favorite treats*.  Daiya brand *New York “cheezecake”*  (just thaw and it’s ready), So Delicious brand *coconut milk nog* , and Amy’s brand gluten-free *chocolate cake* (simply heat and enjoy) are just a few examples.  All are free of dairy, eggs, soy,peanuts, and gluten, and take zero preparation time.

*3) Offer simple, healthy options.*  Things with “dairy-free” or

“gluten-free” on the label aren’t the only choices.  The healthiest foods often don’t have labels.  Nuts and dried fruit like cranberries or dates make a beautiful party snack bowl.

*4) Care for yourself FIRST. *It’s tempting to do everything for your friends, family, boss, and coworkers while forgetting yourself.  Yet you can’t be a fun guest or a gracious host if *you* are exhausted and overwhelmed.  Treat yourself to a yoga class, a relaxing massage, or a personal training session focused on stretching.

ACE & NSCA Certified Personal Trainer

President

On the Mend Customized Fitness and Massage

http://onthemendfitness.com/