“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.”

Or is it? For folks like me who have food allergies and sensitivities it’s the most anxious time of the year. Gathering with family and friends can be challenging, not only for socializing with that person who insists on discussing politics, religion, the latest diet craze, or sports teams, but for eating safely. Trying to avoid poisoning ourselves is a full-time job, going to a gathering can be deadly. Many will turn down an invitation because the thought of going and suffering a reaction, feels too great a risk. Here are some tips/techniques that I have tried when accepting an invitation:

1. Educate the host of your allergies and sensitivities and offer to bring your own food or a “safe for you” main dish to share. Often, a gracious host will want to be sensitive and provide safe food for you and will do their best to provide food with “their understanding” of your food allergy or sensitivity. Providing a written guide with specific details can be helpful to make sure your host understands. I will often send a food allergy card that I use in restaurants prior to the event and call to check in before attending.
2. Eat before you go and/or bring a cooler with snacks to leave in the car. There is nothing worse than showing up to an event starving and find there is nothing safe to eat.
3. Stick to eating one or two ingredient items. Most parties will have cheese and crackers, veggies and dip, fruit trays, pretzels and chips, olives, chocolate, etc. When in doubt, leave it out. If you are unsure if a food item is safe, err on the side of caution and don’t eat it.
4. If your allergens are airborne, meaning if you are in an area where that food is being prepared and can have reaction, it will be important to have an escape plan. You may need to bring your own mode of transportation, definitely bring your medications and medical emergency allergy pen.
5. When all else fails, lower your expectations. It is not the hosts’ responsibility to ensure your safety. It is lovely when it happens, but you need to prepare for the worse-case scenario. Refer to tip 2.

Remember the reason for the season. Focus on why you are there. Is spending time with loved ones or to celebrate a special occasion/holiday the reason? Direct your energies on what you can have as opposed to what you can’t.

Find the Joy!