Solving the Toaster Dilemma for Celiac Disease
By Lana Bandoim
The toaster dilemma is a problem in many households in which a family member has celiac disease. After a person is diagnosed with this condition, it is crucial that he or she starts the gluten-free diet right away. What happens to the beloved toaster that used to make wheat bread a joy to eat every morning?
Toaster Dilemma
Some people who have celiac disease are very sensitive and can react to a crumb of gluten. This means that a tiny piece of bread or a little crumb that is left in a toaster can make them sick. Even if you clean the toaster thoroughly, it is almost impossible to guarantee that every crumb is gone.
Toasters are a common source of cross-contamination in the kitchen. If you have celiac disease, and other members of the household continue to toast wheat bread in the toaster, then you cannot use it. It is not worth risking your health to continue using it.
Separate Toasters
Many households solve this dilemma by buying a new toaster for those with celiac disease. They label it or get one in a different color to make it easier to identify them in the kitchen. The new toaster can be used for gluten-free bread and bagels. Some people make their entire kitchens gluten-free, so they buy a new toaster and get rid of the old one. Consider donating the toaster to another family or friend.
Toaster Bags
If it is not possible to get a new toaster, then consider using toaster bags. Several brands sell them online, and some are available in stores. Toaster bags allow you to make toast in a safe container. This prevents cross-contamination with wheat and other sources of gluten that may be hiding in the toaster.
There are reusable toaster bags available, so the cost is lower over time. Look for nonstick bags that are safe to use in your toaster. Make sure they are large enough to accommodate gluten-free bread or bagels. Also, make sure they are PTFE free. PTFE stands for polytetrafluoroethylene, or Teflon, and it is a dangerous nonstick coating that can affect the health.
The toaster dilemma can be solved in celiac disease households. Consider these tips and make a decision about the future of the toaster. You can still have a toasted gluten-free bagel for breakfast with cream cheese or a piece of gluten-free bread with peanut butter.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Cottonwood Heights, Utah.