Lets Eat Out Around the World Gluten Free and Allergy Free, Fourth Edition: Eat Safely in Any Restaurant at Home or Abroad41449

Our Personal Journeys From Both Sides of the Table

Both Sides of the Table

Life is a collection of journeys filled with new adventures, each featuring both joyful highs and painful lows These experiences offer valuable lessons about ourselves, others, and the world around us, often leading to unexpected twists and turns that enrich our understanding of life.

In our view, the only true failures in life occur when we fail to learn from our experiences, as every lesson comes with its own cost We invite you to explore our journeys, offering firsthand insights that reflect this belief.

• Kim’s journey to embracing the gluten and allergen-free life

• Robert’s journey in dealing with special diets:

The other side of the table

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Kim’s Journey to Embracing the Gluten and Allergen-Free Life

Throughout my journey in life, I've encountered numerous twists and turns that have taught me valuable lessons Writing my first book and this subsequent edition has compelled me to reflect on my experiences and gain clarity It's surprising how much I had overlooked or repressed in my memory.

My health concerns over the years include 12 orthopedic surgeries, multiple broken bones and over

After enduring three years of physical therapy and over nine years battling digestive disorders, skin issues, fatigue, joint inflammation, and misdiagnoses, I received a clear diagnosis in 2002: celiac disease, along with multiple food allergies and environmental intolerances This was followed by a diagnosis of osteopenia in 2008.

Despite the numerous challenges I've faced in my health journey, I view each lesson as a valuable gift worthy of appreciation At times, I wondered how I would navigate these trials, feeling as though the light at the end of the tunnel had vanished However, I ultimately recognized that each experience provided unique learning opportunities.

Reflecting on my journey, I am grateful for the experiences that have shaped my life, particularly in the face of health challenges I strive to maintain an active lifestyle while enjoying quality time with family and friends My extensive travels before my celiac diagnosis and food allergies have enriched my passion for exploring the world As an international management consultant, I have had the privilege of living and working across four continents, immersing myself in diverse cultures Embracing a gluten and allergen-free lifestyle, I continue to work with global clients and navigate dining out safely, which remains a vital aspect of my life.

I would like to share my story with you, in the hope that it may help with your unique adventures My journeys are organized within the following six areas:

• Early evidence of allergies and intolerances

• My journey with sports and health

• Thanks to family, friends and restaurants

Early Evidence of Allergies and Intolerances

Since childhood, I have suffered from allergies to cats, fish, and seafood, experiencing symptoms such as throat constriction, watery eyes, and difficulty breathing My teenage years revealed additional allergies to goose feathers, down, and wool, along with skin reactions I also react adversely to various chemicals and additives found in detergents, soaps, creams, and makeup.

In my mid 20’s, I had swollen and blood shot eyes

After a thorough examination, my optometrist concluded that my unusual appearance was due to an allergic reaction to thimerosal, a chemical found in certain saline solutions for contact lenses I can’t help but chuckle when I recall the curious questions I received from friends about my condition during that period!

In my late 20s, I faced unusual bladder issues that were uncommon for someone my age After seeing multiple specialists and undergoing extensive tests, I sought advice from my general physician, who provided valuable insights and recommendations.

I started my elimination diet by removing caffeine, which led to slight improvements in my condition, but symptoms persisted My physician then identified aspartame as another possible trigger Once I eliminated all aspartame-containing foods from my diet, my issues were resolved immediately I felt immense relief at finally discovering the cause of my symptoms and am deeply grateful to my physician for her guidance.

A few months later, I realized that I had the ten- dency to get sick within 30 to 60 minutes after eating

Chinese food Once again, through the process of

1 elimination and investigation, we determined that Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) was the cause of my reactions

Shortly after receiving anesthesia for surgery, I experienced a severe allergic reaction when my throat began to close and my breathing became labored due to being administered penicillin Fortunately, I recalled that my great aunt had died from a penicillin shot, prompting the medical team to quickly counteract my reaction with an injection Reflecting on this incident, I realize it may have been an early warning sign of my sensitivities, a pattern that took over 15 years to fully understand.

From a young age, my fascination with travel was ignited during a family road trip from Chicago to my Aunt Greta’s farm in Ohio This passion blossomed as we spent summers exploring diverse destinations across the United States and Canada in a camper trailer, creating unforgettable adventures For my 8th grade graduation, I was offered a choice between a new bicycle or a flight to New York to visit relatives; I eagerly chose the trip, a decision that remains etched in my memory, including the exact spot I sat on the plane.

Hearing my grandparents occasionally recite phrases in French and German always intrigued me

At 13, I began my French lessons and developed a passion for languages, with a high school teacher even offering me Spanish lessons after class My love for Europe blossomed during a trip to Paris at 16, which I received as an early graduation gift This experience shaped my university selection criteria, prioritizing institutions with strong study abroad programs and Big 10 sports.

During my third year of college, I lived in Stras- bourg, France and studied all of my courses in French

My diet primarily consisted of baguettes (French

During my travels across Europe, I indulged in delightful treats like fresh bread, chocolate croissants, yogurt, and cheese, all while feeling physically great I took on the role of tour guide for friends and family who visited, and I continue to reunite with friends in Paris each year to savor the vibrant culture and enjoy the charming outdoor cafés.

After graduating from Purdue University with a

Bachelor of Arts Degree in the French language with a minor in business, I worked with domestic corpo- rate clients for six years I then earned my Masters in

International Management at the Thunderbird School of Global Management and met lots of excellent friends along the way

For the next 17 years, as a global business consultant with Accenture, the world’s leading management consulting firm, I worked with clients all over the world

With extensive expertise in customer interaction solutions, I successfully led diverse project teams in global customer relationship management (CRM) and business integration practices Collaborating with Fortune 500 clients across various industries, we delivered innovative sales and service engagements on four continents, achieving 12 groundbreaking industry-leading implementations.

Discovering life and cultures in South America,

Approach to Safe Eating Experiences

Navigating gluten and allergen-free diets presents significant challenges when dining out, especially in restaurants This process demands greater education, awareness, and preparation compared to the general population, who typically enjoy a wider range of food options Understanding which foods are safe to consume is crucial for those with dietary restrictions.

This chapter provides essential suggestions to enhance guests' comfort when dining out, while also helping restaurants accommodate those with special dietary needs The key to ensuring safe eating experiences lies in understanding these dietary concerns and implementing effective strategies to address them.

• Learning curve associated with special diets

• Guest approach to eating outside the home

• Restaurant approach to handling special dietary requests

• Collaborative process of eating out

Learning Curve Associated with Special Diets

Navigating gluten and allergen-free diets presents a learning curve for both guests and restaurants Both parties must acquire essential knowledge to effectively manage special dietary needs, ensuring a safe and enjoyable dining experience.

The learning curve associated with special diets includes the following four key steps, for individuals and restaurant professionals alike:

To gain awareness of your allergies or dietary requirements, it's essential to educate yourself about your specific conditions Begin by understanding your diagnosis and researching the necessary steps to manage your health Common questions include what you have been diagnosed with, where to start your research, and what resources are available to assist you in navigating your new lifestyle.

Restaurant professionals also face challenges in accommodating guests with special dietary needs They must consider what specific diets may be required and seek to understand these needs more thoroughly Additionally, they should explore available resources to enhance their knowledge and improve guest satisfaction.

The next phase in your learning journey involves understanding the basics of what you can and cannot eat It’s crucial to identify hidden allergens in foods and to know how to adapt your diet accordingly to manage these unexpected challenges.

Restaurant professionals often consider the dietary needs of their guests by asking, "What can this guest eat, and what is off-limits?" They evaluate potential issues with ingredients and food preparation methods, seeking ways to adapt their offerings to meet individual requirements This thoughtful approach highlights the importance of accommodating diverse dietary preferences and restrictions.

Once individuals grasp the necessary understanding, the next crucial step is to gain knowledge This involves applying what they have learned to safely enjoy meals both at restaurants and at home It is essential to effectively communicate any special dietary requirements and to develop a strategy for ordering safe meals, which will help build confidence in navigating various cuisines and dishes.

Effective staff training is crucial for restaurants, encompassing both front and back of house teams Clear communication of training information among all employees is essential, along with the establishment of necessary operational protocols to ensure smooth service and collaboration.

Effective training enables establishments to equip their staff with the skills to assist guests with special dietary needs by navigating the menu, considering ingredients, preparation methods, and potential hidden allergens.

4 The final step of the learning curve is empowerment

As the guest, you need to know where and what you can eat, as well as what modifications can be made to easily accommodate your dietary requirements

Once this is achieved, you can focus on enjoying your eating experiences while remaining diligent about the foods you eat

To cater to special dietary needs, restaurants should simplify their menu options, enabling them to focus on delivering safe and delicious meals This approach not only enhances the quality of service but also fosters customer loyalty and encourages repeat business.

Guest Approach to Eating Outside the Home

After years of research, personal experience, and extensive discussions with hospitality professionals, we present a comprehensive guide for managing gluten and allergen-free lifestyles while dining out Our goal is to ensure safe and enjoyable eating experiences, no matter the restaurant, cuisine, or location This guide outlines eight essential steps to help you navigate dining outside the home safely.

1 Educate yourself about eating outside the home with special diets

2 Assess your dining comfort level for the meal

3 Identify your eating options and preferences

4 Determine desired level of pre-planning efforts

5 Communicate your special dietary needs with the restaurant

7 Receive order and appreciate your meal

8 Provide feedback on dining experience

This article outlines eight essential steps to help you navigate dining out while adhering to your dietary goals By reflecting on specific questions as a guest, you can evaluate your readiness and make informed choices For those new to their diet, these insights can provide valuable guidance during the initial learning phase.

If you've been adhering to a gluten and allergen-free diet, reflecting on your past experiences can enhance your understanding of this dietary approach and reveal new insights This perspective is also valuable for restaurants aiming to better accommodate guests with special dietary needs.

1 Educate yourself about eating outside the home with special diets a Read applicable materials:

• Review books, publications, restaurant reviews and awareness programs

• Research the Internet, databases and other reference materials b Talk with other individuals managing gluten and/or allergen-free lifestyles c Attend educational sessions:

• Participate in associated conferences and cooking classes

• Hire a personal chef for consultation

2 Assess your dining comfort level for the meal a Identify your safety factors:

• Determine how you feel physically

• Assess how safe you feel with eating out b Based upon your previous needs and experiences, evaluate what cuisines are low and high risk c Assess specific cuisines:

• Determine what type of cuisines satisfy your comfort level and tastes

• Identify your desired level of understanding about food preparation techniques

3 Identify your eating options and preferences a Determine the desired type of establishment:

• Fine dining or family-oriented restaurant

• Fast food/quick service or carry out/take away

Do I have the information that I need to make informed choices and increase my comfort level in restaurants?

What additional research is required to expand my knowledge?

How comfortable do I feel eating out in restaurants today?

What foods appeal to me?

How safe do I feel today with the food that I will be eating?

How much effort do I want to spend on deciding what to eat?

How comfortable am I with this restaurant, the cuisine and menu options?

2 b Assess what type of cuisine you prefer:

• Familiar with cuisine menu items c Determine important factors based on your comfort level:

• Familiar and where you have eaten before

• Features specific gluten and/or allergen-free menu d Select your restaurant

4 Determine desired level of pre-planning efforts a Conduct research as necessary on:

• Cuisine ingredients and preparation techniques

• Restaurant menu options and items b Determine the best time for your meal:

• Decide to walk into a restaurant when convenient

• Reserve a time that is typically not crowded c Determine the level of communication necessary with the restaurant prior to your meal:

• Review menu on the Internet

• Call ahead to discuss your requirements

What level of planning do I want to do prior to going to the restaurant?

What areas of food preparation need to be reviewed?

What hidden allergens do I need to be aware of?

Do I need to conduct more research to increase my comfort level about this cuisine and/or restaurant?

5 Communicate your special dietary needs with the restaurant a Determine your approach:

• Susceptible to anaphylaxis and life threatening conditions

• Have celiac / coeliac or food allergies

• On a special diet b Initiate your first contact with restaurant:

• Go to restaurant without prior communication

• Call ahead prior to walking in the door

• Pre-order your meal based upon your concerns c Discuss requirements with restaurant staff and potentially request manager or chef if needed

6 Order your meal a Determine reference materials required to order meal:

• Assess if a dining card outlining dietary requirements is needed based upon your comfort level or language considerations

• Refer to your notes, books, quick reference guides, translation cards and foreign language phrase books as needed b Discuss the menu with the restaurant:

• Ask appropriate questions to determine meal choices based upon cuisine, dishes and preferences

• Explain your concerns to the restaurant

• Ask staff to verify and validate ingredients and preparation techniques as needed

How do I want to communicate the severity of my condition?

When and how do I want to explain my special dietary needs?

Are my requirements understood or do I need to speak with someone else to feel safe and comfortable?

How do I want to communicate my needs to the restaurant—ask questions, give them materials outlining requirements or both?

What areas of food preparation need to be questioned?

What hidden allergens do I inquire about?

How comfortable do I feel that my order will be prepared as requested?

• Confirm your order with restaurant

7 Receive order and appreciate your meal a Confirm your order upon delivery:

• Reiterate your special order request

• Receive dish and assess preparation b Enjoy your meal:

• Request dish be returned if special request is not met c Relax and appreciate the dining experience:

• Compliment the staff if your special requests are met

• Include a generous tip for good service, if appropriate

• Frequent the restaurant again based on experience

After your dining experience, it's essential to offer constructive feedback to the restaurant professionals to help them improve If you enjoyed your meal, consider recommending the establishment to friends and family Additionally, take the time to share your experience on relevant online platforms or restaurant review programs to inform others.

Is my meal what I ordered?

If not, what needs to be modifi ed to correct the order?

Would I return to this restaurant?

What do I want to communicate to the staff regarding their service?

Would I recommend this establishment to others?

Tiêu đề	Let's Eat Out Around the World Gluten Free and Allergy Free
Tác giả	Kim Koeller, Robert La France
Người hướng dẫn	Alessio Fasano, MD
Trường học	demos health
Chuyên ngành	gluten free and allergy free
Thể loại	book
Năm xuất bản	Fourth Edition
Thành phố	New York

Định dạng
Số trang	343
Dung lượng	14,77 MB