WIN-It-Wednesday: Gluten-Free Diet: Comprehensive Resource Guide – The Newest Edition!

We’re on a (gluten free) roll! This is the fifth week of BeFreeForMe’s ever popular WIN-It-Wednesday feature!

This week’s WIN-It-Wednesday is sponsored by Shelley Case, a registered dietician and leading international expert on celiac disease and the gluten-free diet. You may know Shelley from BeFreeForMe’s monthly segment, Ask Shelley Case.

When I first got diagnosed with celiac disease several years ago, Shelley’s book, “Gluten-Free Diet: Comprehensive Resource Guide” became my gluten-free map. Now, the newest edition of the book is triple the size of my original edition and jam-packed with tidbits of gluten-free information. The map that helped me navigate through the gluten-free lifestyle in 2003 is now the GPS of 2009.

This book is a must-have for those new to the gluten-free journey, as well as the seasoned gluten-free traveler.

I’m not the only one who thinks this book is a must-have. Every customer’s review on Amazon.com gave it 5 out of 5 stars, and Tiffany James, the Atlantic Gluten Free Examiner, recently gave this book a phenomenal review too.

I am happy to announce that Two LUCKY BeFreeForMe members will win the newest edition of “Gluten-Free Diet: Comprehensive Resource Guide”.

How can you win?

Easy!

If you are an old pro of the gluten free diet, give us a word of wisdom (Mine: always plan ahead), piece of advise (Mine: never apologize for your gluten free requests) or a random thought (Mine: beware of red licorice!); or if you are new to the gluten free diet, let us know what is on your mind, wish was on your plate or really want to know but have been afraid to ask!

After all, the gluten free road of life is a lot easier with friends that help you navigate the way!

The contest ends on Sunday, June 28 at 12 midnight EST.

Good Luck and… as always…

Be Free!

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48 Responses to “WIN-It-Wednesday: Gluten-Free Diet: Comprehensive Resource Guide – The Newest Edition!”

  1. cecelia mangan Says:

    I would really like to win this book,as I carry these paper around with me and I call them my bible. There is everything I need, just like the bible.

  2. Esther Says:

    soft corn tortillas are so versatile (wraps, pizza, fried), can be found in most any supermarket and best of all they are economical AND gluten free!

  3. marsha pitter Says:

    So grateful for all of the Smart people out there so so appreciate all the knowledge.

  4. Francine Says:

    I wish I had a boston cream donut!

  5. Kathie Mongaraz Says:

    I have found that it is best for me to be aware of the gifts and opportunities that following a gluten-free diet bring my family. I feel the food we eat, thanks to the celiac communities around the world, is much healthier and safer, and in our 70’s my husband and I are both enjoying good health, and still learning and enjoying sharing, doing our bit to make the food, travel and restaurant industries safer through our feedback – we have met new friends, and celiac disease has turned out to be a very good thing for us both. I no longer feel resentful and stressed by the time spent in my kitchen; instead, I feel so very grateful I can do so!

  6. Kathi French Says:

    I was diagnosed with celiac just about a year ago. I am still making mistakes. Not sure about oat flour – can I have lucky charms!

  7. Tamela Cayward Says:

    I have found a few must haves for my gluten free diet; however, I certainly would like to learn more especially when it comes to eating out.

  8. Linda Says:

    Several years ago, when I went gluten-free, I thought that the cardboard box would taste as good as or even better than some of the gluten-free things I tried. At least now there are some very tasty gluten-free items out there!!!

  9. Faith Pavkovich Says:

    I found this quote on a refrigerator magnet while shopping and had to buy it for my daughter. “When things are bad and getting worse, keep a cookie in your purse.” I think it applies.

  10. debra taylor Says:

    Be aware of soy sauce, fake crab in sushi, most canned soup, and steak served on a piece of toast. These were the last sources of gluten we figured out. As long as we stick to whole foods – meat, chicken, fish, veggies, potatoes, rice, and fruit, we do very well. We always skip the sauces, onion ring garnishes, croutons in salads, cookies stuck in creme brulee and ice cream, and cookies and cream ice cream. Use the slow cooker for everything!! You can make rice pudding, tapioca pudding, stews, soups, all the things you can’t order in a restaurant!

  11. Kristine Says:

    Between being diabetic, having heart problems, AND most recently finding out I need to eliminate gluten, whenever I travel I am packing cooler after cooler of “can have”/favorite foods. Something I just recently found out is that all the McDonald’s along the way — now sell bags of ice now. So, in these hot summer months, keeping foods cool has been made easier!

    Kristine

  12. Debra Gowlland Says:

    I was diagnosed almost a year ago with celiac disease-the hardest part for me was the lack of medical awareness of this disease-I saw so many dr.’s before I finally insisted on being tested. Always go with your gut and be your own advocate!! I feel so much better now!!

  13. Dina Sanabria Says:

    Just diagnosed with Celiac Disease 8 months ago. Had a hard time adjusting to the diet and finding foods to eat. Grateful to be able to eat meat, fish, vegetables, and fruit. Its the cookies, cakes, breads that are difficult to find. I have found some good sweets at Whole Foods, Trader Joes, and online sites that sell gluten-free foods. Still learning to deal with the disease, but will keep on truckin’ baby!!!!

  14. Marina Says:

    Oh, I second the corn tortilla comment. They are so versatile- you can make them into dinner or dessert. They also make an awesome grilled cheese sandwich in a pinch.

    Read labels!!!!! Even for stuff that has been safe in the past, recipes get changed. They could start adding gluten or stop so that it’s safe. Either way, remain vigilant and check your old favorites occasionally. Also branch out and look in the ethnic sections. Lots of Thai, Mexican, Indian and Middle Eastern staples are naturally gluten free.

    And you can still follow most of your favorite recipes with just a few adjustments. I don’t even go through the bother of breading my meat anymore since it saves time and tastes just fine browned without it. And meatballs don’t need breadcrumbs, it’s just filler. Also use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken gravies and stews (it’s a lot cheaper than arrowroot).

    Also keep a snack on hand when you’re out. I keep snacks in my glove compartment and purse so I’m not tempted to eat anything dangerous. I keep dried fruit, nuts, chips (Ranch Doritos have never made me sick, tortilla chips are good, too), Larabars (available at Walmart), and homemade granola bars (with GF oats) around for easy access when I want a pick-me-up.

  15. claire Says:

    I have a celiac 3 year old and a picky non-celiac 5 year old!! I work full time and cook every meal for them and my husband, sometimes three different meals per night!
    I need help, what can we all eat together besides brown rice spaghetti and chex for breakfast??

  16. Nicole Says:

    I wish I could eat hamburger helper even though it’s bad for you. Sometimes I just want a quick and easy dish.

  17. jennifer n. Says:

    Be your own advocate! While at first you may feel as if celiac is restricting you, when in fact its empowering you! Take charge of your health and be proud of your diagnosis. Once you own it, you can take charge of getting what you need and take control of your life.

  18. NFCA Says:

    Great contest with great and helpful prizes. The best part is it is an incentive for the community to share their stories and suggestions and reduce that alone feeling so many end up having.
    Great work!

  19. dyana ciccone Says:

    I am relatively new to the gluten free diet, having been diagnosed just over a year ago.
    I love that so many restaurants and supermarkets are becoming more aware and more celiac friendly!!

  20. Cindy Says:

    I was diagnosed less than a year ago and I miss a good hot dog or hamburger roll!!

  21. Michele Hill Says:

    I wish I could have an honest to good chewy bagel from the deli!

  22. kristina Herrick Says:

    never rely on a host to where you are going to have something GF for you to eat. always pack a bag or cooler.

  23. Susan C - AZ Says:

    I think Debra Taylor said it best (those were my ideas too! Great minds think alike.) Stick with what is gluten-free naturally; fruits and vegetables, meats, poultry, and fish; brown or basmati rice; eggs; and nuts. If you must have something sweet, then buy a gluten-free mix e.g. Bob’s Red Mill brownie mix or chocolate chip cookie mix and bake it at home. They are very easy. And, for those who are new or even for us veterans (I’m gluten-free for 9 years), go to your local healthy grocery stores (Sprouts, Sunflower Market, Trader Joe’s and/or Fresh and Easy) and ask them for their Gluten-Free product list and it will tell you ALL the gluten-free products in the store, in addition to the ones I listed above that are naturally gluten-free.

  24. Giovanna Says:

    Hello,

    How wonderful a quick reference book. I am new to the Gluten free, 6 months in and it does get easier, though still miss the bread and simple quick fix foods of before. I am greatful to General Mills for going Gluten Free with Rice CHex, Corn CHex, etc… and now Betty Crocker is coming out this summer with Cake, brownies and cookie mix. Thank you, thank you to General Mills. Also, thank you to all the wonderful resources on the internet it has made my life easier. To all who must adhere to a Gluten Free Diet, more health to you! Good luck to all, though I would really like to win this one!!!!

  25. Faith Says:

    Dr. told me yesterday that I must follow a strict, gluten free diet. Cooking and baking have been my favorite hobby my entire life! Now I am confused, upset, and overwhelmed about what to cook, eat, buy, or serve my family. After making dinner for my husband, it is too much effort to try to figure out what I can eat. I just did not bother to eat at all. What do you make when you are short on time–we used to grab a pizza or subs?!!! What do you pack for lunches? Help! What a confusing mess!

  26. Eileen Sanders Says:

    Plan ahead when going on vacation. Always take gluten free food with you.

  27. Marlow Says:

    Beware of the “sustainable” spaghetti stick coffee stirrers. I absent mindedly used them at my food co-op for weeks before realizing I was putting a stick of wheat spaghetti in my coffee!!

  28. Carole Tinker Says:

    I’ve been gluten free for 6 months and there’s still so much I am learning! The hardest part for me right now is handling social situation, like a wedding, where I do not know the host/hostess very well.

  29. Cali Says:

    I’m a newbie in the GF world – just a few months old in fact. I just want a pizza, real bad….

    And I keep making mistakes, e.g. barley malt.

    And I want an easy bread recipe – not one with 15 ingredients.

    And I love focusing on the things I CAN eat, rather than those I can’t… except pizza.

  30. Alicia Says:

    Always read labels.. even of previously OK products.. you’ll learn to make healthier choices while eating gluten -free. Do not be afraid to speak up, ask.. and therefore educate in the process.
    Many super-markets, like Shoprite, are now starting to carry more gluten free products… thank the store manager. CHEX cereal is now gluten-free… Betty Crocker is releasing Gluten-Free Baking mixes this summer.. ask for them to carry these, if they don’t.

  31. Lisa Durene Says:

    I have only been gluten free for about a month now so I am still learning! I too have been craving pizza. I did some searching on the internet and found a recipe. I tried it a few days ago and it was great! I also have dairy intolerance so I used soy cheese but I thought it was wonderful. I will copy the recipe below. I would love to win the book. I also have a “folder” I carry around. Also, always watch labels and I am surprised more restuarants don’t have a gluten free menu or know if their foods have it.

    Pizza Crust
    • 1 tbspn of dry yeast
    • 2/3 cu of brown rice flour
    • 1/2 c of tapioca flour
    • 2 tbspn ofs powdered milk or non-dairy powdered coffee creamer
    • 2 tspn of xanthan gum
    • 1/2 tspn of salt
    • 1 tspn of unflavored gelatin
    • 1 tspn of italian seasoning
    • 2/3 c of water
    • 1/2 tspn of sugar or honey
    • 1 tspn of olive oil
    • 1 tspn of cider vinegar
    In medium bowl using regular beaters and blend all ingredients on low speed. Beat on high speed for 3 minutes. If the dough is too stiff. Add water if necessary Put mixture on lightly greased 12-inch pizza pan. Make sure the edges are a little thicker then the rest so that it will hold the toppings. At 425 F your going to bake this for 10 minutes. Then procced making your pizza

  32. Becky Says:

    For Cali note on 6/24 –Bob’s Red Mill makes gluten free pizza crust mix. You add water, egg & olive oil. It’s very thick crust & will make 2 large pizza’s (or possibly 3). It’s very good after you add your favorite toppings.

  33. Lorraine Says:

    I feel very fortunate to have found a Celiac Sprue Chapter. Everyone is so kind and helpful. At our meetings we share our mistakes and share our finds. We sometimes have had speakers, potlucks, share recipes, just a multitude of helpful things for the survival in the Celiac world. I still get confused and need any help that is available. I was diagnosed about 1 1/2 years ago and got into trouble at the beginning of this year.

    As said before, I miss my breads. (Garlic Cheese, bagels, and a bun that doesn’t crumble and tastes good.

  34. Karen C Says:

    I was diagnosed with Celiac a few months ago and it has been a real roller coaster ride for me. I think its important to give yourself time to adjust and have a strong support group. The first thing that struck me is that fast food is almost impossible and I had to adjust my schedule and cook alot of gf meals to plan my week. I blew a kiss goodbye to Mickey D’s and Burger King and I am learning to make delicious alternatives for me and my family. There is alot of great info out there to support us, give us hope and keep our tummies full and happy.

  35. Kellan Pope Says:

    If you accidentally eat gluten, Gatorade counteracts the pain. We keep the little pouches you add to water bottles in the car since they don’t require special storage. I have recently found GLUTINO brand of crackers and cookies. They are good and so are ENJOY LIFE soft baked cookies. Still miss good, soft bread. Have been GF for 4 years and it is better, but still hard!

  36. jessica sosinsky Says:

    my daughter has celiac we found out about 4 months ago. She is 8 yrs old. We travel a lot to her and my sons sport/events – I find myself aways packing the same things for her. Weve have a few local restaurants but again, shes just sick of the same food.

  37. Jan Says:

    Our local Wal-mart now stocks Rice Chex and Corn Chex gluten free cereals by General Mills. They say “Gluten free” on the front of the box. It’s a pleasure to buy my cereal along with the rest of my family.

  38. Roxann Says:

    I would really like to win this book, my shelves are full, but I am always looking for new and more information. My problem is by the time I cook for my family, (they refuse to eat GF) I’m so tired its hard to cook something really tasty. Cali-I have a great bread and a great pizza receipe I could send you. They are real easy. The red licorice threw me for a loop when I realized it wasn’t GF.

  39. Melissa Says:

    My daughter was recently diagnosed at 28 months old and it is difficult to find toddler friendly food that mimics what she’s used to eating without putting a large dent in my wallet…I feel like I spend all my time off at the grocery store or baking just to make sure she has enough choices so that she’s eating something…2 year olds are picky eaters as is without having to take away the easy choices like pb&j sandwiches…i have yet to find a bread, storebought or homeade that she’ll eat

  40. Annette Hunt Says:

    There is so much good food that we can eat! I can’t eat sugar and most dairy either, so it is a challenge. Focus on what you can eat. Research and educate yourself, websites and books are loaded with help. Network with other people that have Celiac. Call restaurants and caterers before you go out. Bring a back up meal or snack. I cooked healthy before I discoverd I have Celiac, but now I cook even healthier. Don’t appologize. Life is good, maybe even better gluten free.

  41. gfe-gluten free easily Says:

    Always eat real food. Focus on meals and desserts from those foods that are naturally gluten free. I use a combination of Asian white rice flour (finely ground) and cornstarch for my baking where wheat flour was previously called for with a little xanthan gum and the results are terrific. I even make a popover pizza and a flourless pizza that are both wonderful. We all tend to eat the same things and make the same recipes over and over again once we find success, so focus on that and don’t feel deprived. I do not buy gf mixes because I don’t feel well eating them even if they are gluten free, and mostly, I think they do not taste good and are way too expensive.

    Shirley

  42. Cathy Selber Says:

    I am always looking for more information to make this journey more interesting and easier. I am learning to embrace the gluten free life… not just live with it!

  43. Faith Spivey Says:

    Join a support group. Our celiac support group is a great source of information, support, and place to sample gluten free products. I don’t know what I would do without it. Also, I always make sure I take staple foods to family events. As much as family may want to be supportive and try to do the right thing by you, things get missed. (Chicken broth in mashed potatoes got me once!) I always bring my own butter/margarine, no one thinks about the bread crumbs in butter.

  44. Christine Says:

    My advice: Don’t kiss your husband right after he’s had a Guinness!! 🙂

  45. cecelia mangan Says:

    I would like to win this book because I am tired of buying food that just doesnt taste good. I do a lot of baking and would like some great recipes. A I would like to make food that my husband will eat in stead of making two meals. Thanks.

  46. Gwyneth Says:

    Being fairly new at avoiding gluten I have discoverd it’s a minefield out there!! I could use some help, so I don’t BLOW UP.

  47. Dee Says:

    For someone new to the celiac diet – take this opportunity to make any needed changes in your diet. As you transition away from gluten, transition away from processed foods in general. Eat simply and read as much as you can about this disease and how to achieve optimal health for yourself. View this as an opportunity and stay positive!
    I was diagnosed two years ago and feel like a different person now. I have so much energy that I”m taking dance classes and tennis lessons. I am very careful and very deliberate about what I eat. And I’m very happy with this life, including my celiac’s disease.

  48. Kathleen Reale Says:

    Hello Everyone!

    The two winners for this WIN-It-Wednesday contest are:

    1.) Eileen from Illinois
    2.) Debra from Maryland

    Congratulations!

    Be Free!
    Kathleen

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