Eating gluten-free at home and in restaurants

For people with celiac disease, in particular, it's important not to eat gluten or use medicines with gluten in them. The following tips can help you keep gluten from accidentally getting into the food you make at home:

• Store gluten-free foods in a different place from where you store foods that have gluten.
• Keep cooking surfaces and food storage areas clean to remove any ingredient that has gluten in it.
• Wash dishes and cooking equipment thoroughly.
• Use separate cutting boards, cooking equipment and utensils for gluten-free foods. For instance, you could think about buying a separate toaster or toasting bread in the oven. This lowers the risk of cross-contamination from crumbs that could have gluten in them.

You also can take steps to lower your chances of being exposed to gluten when you eat out. Use these tips:

• Read restaurant menus online ahead of time if you can to be sure there are options for you.
• Eat out early or late when a restaurant is less busy and better able to address your needs.
• Ask your server what seasonings will be used and how the food will be prepared and handled. Also ask if your food can be made with separate, well-cleaned equipment and surfaces.