An English speaker's guide to living gluten free in the Netherlands
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Albert Heijn Is My Best Friend
When we did our exploration trip to the Netherlands, we arrived at our AirBnB with only a rough idea that Dutch grocery stores should have a “free from” shelf and that I’d be spending a fair bit of our exploration weeks foraging for food and Google translating labels. We got lucky, and the closest grocery…
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When You’re Homesick for Salsa (a pico de gallo recipe)
Because some days you are homesick, and it’s worth an hour and a half of hand-chopping to have fresh pico that tastes like proper pico… Any American will tell you that Europe, while it’s coming along at its own pace, severely lacks quality salsa. Add the need for gluten free to your qualifications, and your…
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Tabby’s Origin Story, or Grocery Shopping Is Hell
Grocery shopping is one of the most frustrating parts of learning to eat at a celiac-safe level of gluten free. I’m sure most of my readers can identify with the special hell that comes from learning how to spot gluten on ingredient lists and what different phrases and certifications actually mean. Grocery shopping takes so…
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Welcome to Tabby Illumination!
This is the home of a young adult fantasy writer, Holly Westlund. I am also an editor for hire (copy and developmental), a health and education writer, and a cat lover. There has almost always been a tabby at home. I am also an immigrant to the Netherlands, where I moved shortly after being diagnosed…
Medical Disclaimer
I am not a medical professional and the information on this blog should not be considered medical advice. I share my personal experiences and my own best interpretation of allergen labeling and cross-contamination issues. Always check labels and food preparation practices for yourself. I hope that the stories and information I share will help others have a softer landing as they navigate gluten free life in the Netherlands, but you should only make health decisions in consultation with your doctor.