How to survive Thanksgiving if you’re gluten-free or vegan
If you’re gluten-free or vegan, Thanksgiving can be a tough holiday.
Here are 15 tips on how to make it through the day without feeling left out or deprived.
1. Bring your own food.
This is probably the most important tip. Don’t rely on others to accommodate your dietary needs – bring your own food that you know you can eat and enjoy. This way, you won’t have to worry about what’s being served and whether or not it’s safe for you to eat.
2. Be prepared to explain your dietary restrictions.
Some people may not be familiar with gluten-free or vegan diets, so be prepared to explain what they are and why you follow them. This will help others understand your choices and maybe even encourage them to be more accommodating in the future.
3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
If you’re unsure about what’s in a dish or whether it’s safe for you to eat, don’t hesitate to ask. Better to be safe than sorry – and chances are, the person who made the dish will appreciate your diligence.
4. Bring a dish to share.
This is a great way to make sure there’s something at the meal that you can eat, and it’s also a nice gesture for your hosts. Gluten-free and vegan dishes can be just as delicious as their traditional counterparts, so don’t be afraid to show off your cooking skills!
5. Don’t be afraid to speak up.
If you’re feeling left out or like your dietary needs are being ignored, don’t hesitate to say something. It’s important to assert yourself and make sure that your needs are being considered.
6. Offer to help with the cooking.
This is a great way to get involved in the meal and make sure that your needs are taken into account. Plus, it’s always nice to lend a helping hand in the kitchen!
7. Be flexible.
Remember that not everything has to be perfect – sometimes, it’s just about making do with what you have. If there’s nothing at the meal that you can eat, try to focus on the company and conversation instead. And who knows – you might just find a new favorite dish in the process!
8. Don’t forget about dessert!
Just because you’re gluten-free or vegan doesn’t mean you have to miss out on dessert. There are plenty of delicious recipes out there that cater to your dietary needs, so indulge your sweet tooth with abandon!
9. Seek out other gluten-free or vegan guests.
If you know of anyone else at the gathering who shares your dietary restrictions, seek them out and stick together. It can be nice to have someone to commiserate with, and you might even make some new friends in the process.
10. Be respectful of others’ choices.
Just because you don’t eat meat or dairy doesn’t mean everyone else at the table has to follow suit. Respect other peoples’ choices and don’t try to force your diet on them.
11. Don’t make a big deal out of it.
Your dietary restrictions are just that – yours. Don’t turn them into a source of drama or conflict, and try not to let them overshadow the rest of the day.
12. Be thankful for what you have.
It’s easy to focus on what you can’t have when you’re gluten-free or vegan, but try to remember all the things you can eat. Be thankful for the delicious food you do have, and for the people in your life who make it possible for you to enjoy it.
13. Focus on the positive.
There’s always something to be thankful for, even on tough days. Try to focus on the positive and remember that things could always be worse.
14. Remember that you’re not alone.
If you’re feeling down, reach out to someone who understands what you’re going through. There are plenty of resources and support groups available, so don’t hesitate to seek them out.
15. Give yourself a break.
Sometimes, the best thing you can do is cut yourself some slack. Not every day is perfect, and that’s okay. Be gentle with yourself and remember that you’re doing the best you can.
Conclusion:
Eating gluten-free or vegan can be a challenge, especially when you’re surrounded by people who don’t share your dietary restrictions. But by following these tips, you can make sure that you have a positive and enjoyable experience.