Almost 3 million Americans suffer from the autoimmune digestive disease known as celiac disease, according to the website for the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness. Celiac is triggered by gluten protein found in wheat, rye and barley, and damages the small intestine and interferes with the absorption of nutrients from food.
As someone who has battled a similar digestive illness for 15 years, I know about being perceived as a “picky†eater because there is no other option, and how a restaurant menu can be an enemy in disguise if you aren’t careful.

Now at least one night of every month celiac sufferers have a dinner menu planned just for them. Due to the success of its first gluten- and wheat-free dinner, Shaun’s will be hosting the event the second Sunday of every month. The next dinner will be Feb. 10 and will feature a prix-fixe menu for $45, and $65 with beer pairings. Check out the menu here. For gluten-free diners this event offers a little peace of mind, knowing that they will be covered from appetizers to dessert.
The NFCA website has a 15-page, downloadable Celiac Disease & Gluten-Free Survival Guide that discusses symptoms, dietary options and restaurant chains that offer gluten-free items such as Outback Steakhouse and Bonefish Grill. Find it here: www.celiacentral.org.