Thanksgiving With Celiac Disease: 3 Tips For a Safe and Happy Meal

Thanksgiving is almost upon us, a time to celebrate with loved ones, express gratitude, and enjoy delicious food. For an estimated three million Americans with celiac disease, however, navigating the holiday feast can feel like less of a celebration and more of a challenge. 

With so many tempting dishes and the risk of gluten contamination, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. At Rivas Digestive Center in Hollywood, Florida, John M. Rivas, MD provides comprehensive care for celiac disease and other digestive issues, helping patients of all ages manage their condition effectively.

Whether you’re a seasoned celiac warrior or just starting your gluten-free journey, our team can help you make the most of your holiday festivities. Here are our top three tips for a safe and happy Thanksgiving meal.

1. Communication is key

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the body’s immune system reacts negatively to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When people with celiac disease consume gluten, their immune system attacks the lining of their small intestine and causes damage. This leads to a variety of unpleasant symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea.

If you’re attending a Thanksgiving gathering and you have celiac disease, open communication with your host is essential. Clearly explain the nature of your condition, the importance of avoiding gluten, and the potential risks of cross-contamination. 

If you’re planning to host your own Thanksgiving dinner, be sure to communicate your gluten-free needs to your guests. Encourage them to bring a gluten-free dish or a nonfood item, such as flowers, ice, or beverages. This helps alleviate some of the hosting stress and ensures there are plenty of options for everyone to enjoy.

2. Avoid cross-contamination at all costs

Cross-contamination is a major concern for individuals with celiac disease. Gluten easily transfers from contaminated surfaces or utensils to gluten-free foods. To prevent cross-contamination when preparing your Thanksgiving meal, make sure that you:

• Use different utensils, plates, and cookware to prepare gluten-free dishes, and vice-versa
• Clean all surfaces with hot, soapy water before assembling and cooking gluten-free recipes
• Avoid using shared cooking equipment, such as toasters, air fryers, and food processors

When attending a Thanksgiving meal at someone else’s home, be mindful of the cross-contamination risks involved. You can guarantee a gluten-free option by bringing your own dish to the gathering.

3. Be an ingredient detective

Sneaky sources of gluten often lurk in seemingly harmless products. Think of convenient ingredients we all buy to make Thanksgiving meal prep just a little bit easier: gravy mixes, spice blends, canned soups, and pre-made broths. These products may contain hidden gluten.

Read product labels thoroughly when shopping, and keep an eye out for terms like hydrolyzed wheat protein, mono- and di-glycerides, malt, and caramel color. Certified gluten-free products have a special symbol on their packaging to identify them. Your neighborhood grocery store may even have a dedicated gluten-free section where you can find safe versions of your Thanksgiving favorites.

A healthy and enjoyable Thanksgiving is possible with celiac disease. To learn more about the treatment options available, call or click to make an appointment with Dr. Rivas at Rivas Digestive Center today.