Gluten Free Diet for the Child with Autism
Planning Special Diet Meals for Autistic and Other Visitors
Many children with special needs are on a gluten free diet. Some children with autism are on a gluten free diet. Many children and adults who do not have “special needs” are also on gluten free diets. Individuals with celiac disease fall into this category. Consider these guidelines when preparing food. Remember that the parents of the child, or the adult, on the gluten free diet is always a valuable resource.
Find Gluten Free Recipes
Gluten free recipes can mean many things. The common thread is that the recipe ingredients and seasonings do not have gluten. Although this seems obvious, many commercial food products contain gluten. For information on specific items, look on the packaging or consult the U.S. Food and Drug Administration website with this information.
Following this checklist is a great place to start as the menu is planned.
• Consider the fresh food favorites that the family already enjoys. Fresh cut up melon and a toss salad (with gluten free dressing) are great starters.
• Meats can be safely seasoned if gluten free seasonings are used. Choose freshly rewashed pans or grill for cooking.
• Beyond fresh food choices that are healthy for everyone at the table, consider recipes that can be found on trusted websites and in gluten free cookbooks. Adding one or two new recipes at a time will create a new recipe box of family favorites.
• Desserts can be made from scratch, created with one of the new Betty Crocker gluten free mixes, or ordered from one the gluten free bakeries springing up around the country.
Prepare a Gluten Free Kitchen
Consider making the area of preparation gluten free. This can be an option for family members who will have a house or dinner guest who is gluten free. Begin by designating a gluten free preparation area. Wash the counter with a gluten free soap. Only products that are gluten free should be used on this counter. Cooking utensils can be cleaned in the dishwasher and immediately placed on a paper towel on the counter. Storing the utensils in the silverware drawer until needed increases the risk of cross contamination from things like bread crumbs. One idea to avoid cross contamination is to rewash the needed dishes and utensils immediately before using them.
If the simple guidelines are followed, there is no concern about foods with seemingly hidden gluten ingredients or cross contamination. By preparing a healthy gluten free meal and serving it in a gluten free area, everyone can enjoy the event.