GF diet -- how do I start?

[coldfeet]

About 2 years ago, I did an elimination diet of dairy products with my son. It worked wonders! I also try to keep him away from red dye #40 and HFCS. Of course the latter is the most difficult.

I want to try cutting out gluten as well, but I am soooo scared. As many of you know, gluten is in pretty much everything. My son already cannot have many of the things that he loves because of his CF diet and I would really feel guilty if I were to take away many more of his favorite foods by adding a GF diet.

So how do I get started? Website and book recommendations, please! Your own struggles/stories of getting started, please!

As mamas start answering, I'll probably be posting more questions. LOL

[hades]

what does GF diet stand for?

[momto5girls]

Originally Posted by hades

what does GF diet stand for?

GF stands for gluten free. So, no wheat, rye, barley. Oats are out because of cross-contamination issues except for special certified GF ones (our family tolerates McCann's brand very well, but some people don't).

We've been GF for over 5 years now. What help do you need?

I can help you with websites
www.celiac.com is the best

Or cookbooks:
We like the Bette Hagman ones, although there are lots of really good ones out there.

GF/CF together is more challenging, but very doable. So many families are doing that...check out autism websites for specifically GF/CF ideas.

We eat the same things most families do...just more expensive and a bit more work! But, also less processed and without the added fillers and preservatives.

I'd be glad to help you out with anything else! You can do this! Good luck!

[Ruthla]

The easiest way to get started is to figure out which foods he already eats that are GF and plan meals and snacks around them. You don't need to buy any of the expensive GF "bread replacements" that are out there- but some families do find those products make the transition to GF easier.

Meats, eggs, rice, rice cakes, beans, veggies, fruits, and nuts are all healthy natural CFGF foods. Nut flours are great for baking.