6 Things Gluten Free Eaters Should Know

An Interview with Margaret Clegg of MI Gluten Free Gal

Hello Friends,

I have such a treat for you today! Margaret Clegg of the amazing MI Gluten Free Gal has joined me here with some of her signature fantastic advice and insight for the gluten free community. I’ve followed Margaret for quite some time and I’m always blown away at how in tune with the needs of the community she is. I find myself saying “yes! that’s exactly what I was looking for” every time she shares an article, research finding or busts a gf myth. I feel so fortunate that she included me in her Gluten Free Bloggers of the United States project (which she’s still adding to by the way, so if you know of a gluten free blogger/writer/personality near you that would be a good resource be sure to let her know!)

Before we get into the interview, I want to make sure you see that I’m having a rare sale on paid newsletter subscriptions! Until January 30th get 20% off paid membership for 2024, get next level recipes and exclusive gluten free content - like the recipe I can’t wait to share with you next week. This HIGHLY requested soft gluten free sandwich bread made with simple but innovative techniques and off the shelf gluten free flour blends. I know, I’m excited too!!! So get in here and join the Next Level Gluten Free Party before the sale is over!!

Happy reading and baking,

Rachel

Q: Can you tell me a little bit about yourself – why you started eating gluten free?

I started eating gluten free in 2001 when I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease. I am the third generation in my family to have Celiac Disease. My paternal grandmother and my father both had Celiac Disease. Ironically, my mom's sister was recently diagnosed with Celiac Disease after undergoing radiation for cancer. You can learn more on my website about my Celiac Disease diagnosis journey. I started blogging in 2012 as a hobby, and now it's what I do full time. (That and social media management for a small company.) 

As for me personally, I have my B.S. in Elementary Education. My minors are Math, Language Arts and French. I actually met my husband in French class at Central Michigan University. He teaches 8th grade French and Health. We live in Flint, MI with our wild and crazy dog, Jasmine. 

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash

Q: What advice would you give to people newly diagnosed or newly embarking on their gluten free life?

My biggest advice is to be gracious to yourself. You don't learn and implement this new gluten free diet perfectly overnight. Surround yourself with those who will support you. While the internet and social media can be helpful, pay very close attention to who you follow. Navigating the gluten free internet is a learning experience in itself. As far as eating gluten free, it will take trial and error when it comes to trying new products. Everyone has different taste and texture preferences. 

Also, I have a whole category on my website totally devoted to those who are newly diagnosed with Celiac Disease. 

Q: What is an aspect of gluten free living people might not think about?

I've recently been talking on my social media about how I've started making gluten free bread for communion. Food is so integral in many faith journeys, and our dietary restrictions can sometimes make worship difficult. Don't be afraid to talk to your faith leaders and ask how they can accommodate your or your family. And if they refuse, try to find a different congregation who will. 

Photo by Nagara Oyodo on Unsplash

Q:  Your website and newsletter contain so much wonderful information for the gluten free community, what do you hope that people take away?

Perfect question, as "hope" is the exact thing I wish my readers to feel. Yes, Celiac Disease and our gluten free diet may require more planning on our part. However, it doesn't mean an end to our social life or no longer being able to enjoy some of our favorite foods. We just have to substitute a few things. We have to decide whether we are in control of our gluten free diet, or whether we are allowing it to control us. I explain more about that in my post about attitude. 

Photo by Loes Klinker on Unsplash

Q: What is one food that you think the gluten free version is BETTER?

This is a tough question. I've eaten a gluten free diet for over 20 years. Therefore, I can't really remember how non-gluten free items used to taste. I guess I would say this. My Celiac Disease diagnosis has introduced my taste buds to a variety of food from many different cultures, that are naturally gluten free. Now I eat all sorts of Indian and Middle Eastern foods that I never even tried prior to my diagnosis. I LOVE falafel. (As long as they're cooked in a dedicated fryer.) 

Q: What else would you like to share with Next Level Gluten Free readers?

I love communicating with my followers, both through email and social media. Plus, I'm always willing to chat on the phone if needed. (At no additional charge.) If you see me out and about, please feel free to say hi! It's so rewarding to meet people in person. I'm hoping to do more meet-ups in my state this year, and more restaurant reviews. I publish a weekly newsletter on Substack that includes my own content, recipes from others, as well as headlines related to Celiac Disease. I also share a list of events, in-person or online, that happen each month. I'm hoping to add a section on gluten free sales at grocery stores in the future. 

You can find me on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Tik Tok, Reddit and Pinterest all at the same handle - @miglutenfreegal