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Personal Wellness Topics / Food and Dietary Issues

Food and Dietary Issues

One of the biggest, and most fun, parts of cultural immersion is trying new foods. This can be a little challenging if you have allergies, or you're just a picky eater. But this doesn't mean you'll starve!

The most important thing you can do is research. Look up the "must eats" of your host country or city, and look up the usual ingredients for those dishes. Search for blogs from travelers with dietary restrictions similar to your own. The more you know, the easier it will be to order. Also, if you are staying with a host family, make sure to let them know your food restrictions. Once you know what you can or can't eat, follow some of these steps for your time abroad:

  • Write it Out

    You can buy or make "restriction cards" which state your food restrictions in local languages. If you use this tactic, it's extremely important that your card is in the local language. When making these, use phrases like "I am allergic to" instead of "I can't eat that" or "I don't like." Letting the cook/chef know that you can't have something for health reasons will increase your chances of them sticking to your card. Check out www.selectwisely.com to buy a restriction card!

  • Be Prepared

    If you have food allergies or restrictions, be sure to have the needed medication to manage any accidental consumption. You'll need to make sure you have the prescription for any medication, and you'll want to make sure it isn't expired.

  • Compromise a Bit

    Sometimes it's easier to avoid entire food groups instead of examining every dish that comes to your table. If you don't eat pork, it may be easier at times to order a vegetarian dish, so you don't have to worry about the meat included. At the same time, if you're a picky eater, but you don't have dietary restrictions, now may be the time to try something new!

  • Cook Your Own Food

    This is a great chance to explore grocery stores, markets, and new recipes. Cook for yourself and friends, or cook with them! Look out for cooking classes, and join in when you can! Share favorite dishes, and bring some new ideas home with you. This is also a great way to save money...

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