According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, “About 32 million people have food allergies in the U.S.” If you’re one of this population, events and holidays like Thanksgiving might be a little stressful. Below we review tips for navigating Thanksgiving dinner with food allergies.

Offer to Host

If you’re the one hosting, you can be in control of what goes on the table and what doesn’t. If the thought of cooking a full Thanksgiving meal sounds overwhelming, you can do it potluck-style, but coordinate with your guests to ensure no unsafe foods are brought into your home.

Contact the Host in Advance

If hosting isn’t an option, whoever’s house you’re dining at should be aware of any food allergies you have. This way they can provide safe options, tweak a cherished recipe and make sure nothing is cross-contaminated. You can even talk with them about bringing some of your own dishes that you and others can enjoy without stepping on any toes.

Start New Traditions

If your usual host is hesitant to give up their title and hand it over to someone else or if they don’t seem excited to try a new dish, frame it as an opportunity to start a new tradition. You never know, your safe food may be their new favorite dish.

Don’t Feel the Need to Defend Yourself

If someone comments on how you didn’t eat one of their dishes or only ate the food you brought, you don’t need to get into a heated discussion about your allergy or defend your choices to them. Instead, keep it simple and say something like, “I have dietary restrictions,” or “I have food allergies.” Don’t feel obligated to answer any follow-up questions.

If You’re Enjoying Thanksgiving at a Restaurant

If your family tradition is to eat your Thanksgiving dinner at Poor Calvin’s, be sure to peruse the menu on the website before you go to ensure they have dishes that are safe for you. If not, suggest an alternative venue. Double-check with the waiter or waitress about possible cross-contamination and clearly communicate about your food allergy to them. For more information or to schedule an appointment with an expert allergist, call ENT of Georgia North today.