- By Jessica Newton, Team Member at Glutagen
Dating is challenging enough—from keeping the conversation flowing to deciding if there’ll be a next date. Now, consider the gluten free dating experience, with its strict dietary requirements, and suddenly, it’s about more than just finding a spark.
In a 2022 study1, 68% of participants said that their gluten free diet requirements had a moderate to major impact on their dating life, with nearly half (48%) admitting they’ve hesitated to go on dates altogether.
It’s no surprise when so much of dating revolves around food, with dining out at restaurants being a common go-to. You’re reviewing menus in detail, explaining precautions to waiters, and even wondering if kisses could expose you to gluten, all while hoping your date understands.
The study highlights just how much some of these realities of living strictly gluten free, necessary as they are, can impact dating, which may contribute to greater social anxiety and a lower quality of life. At the same time, it reveals how common the impact of navigating a gluten free diet can be on their dating experience, opening the door for better conversations around practical ways to ease the anxiety of dating while being gluten free.
1. Start the conversation about being gluten free early.
Deciding when to bring up your gluten free diet to your date can feel like a tricky balance—do you mention it early to set expectations or wait until you’ve formed a connection?
According to the study, nearly 43% of participants chose to share their dietary needs before the first date, and of that group, 69% said it had a moderate to major impact on their dating experience.
Interestingly, waiting too long didn’t make things easier. Those who waited until after date four—or once a relationship was already established—reported more challenges, with 73% saying it significantly impacted their dating life.
Gluten free dating tip:
Whether it’s mentioned early or later, it’s bound to come up, so finding the right time for you is what matters most. Your gluten free diet is just another part of you: no need to overthink, but important to mention. On the plus side, think of it as a natural built-in filter that helps you save time in finding people who respect your needs.
2. Dinner date? Plan ahead.
Dinner dates are a classic for a reason: good food, good vibes, and a chance to connect. But when you are gluten free, it can sometimes be less about getting to know your date and more of a Q&A with the waiter.
According to the study, 39% of participants felt uncomfortable explaining their dietary precautions to waiters in front of their date, with 79% of that group noting it had a moderate to major impact on their dating experience.
While the researchers did not explore the exact reason for this discomfort, the unfortunate stigma around gluten free diets as often discussed in the community (just take a scroll through any gluten free forum), paired with the added layer of being evaluated as a potential partner, makes it easy to see why these moments might feel particularly uncomfortable for some.
Gluten free dating tip:
To help boost your confidence when ordering, take charge and choose a trusted spot up front. If it’s somewhere new, stick to what you do best—check the menu beforehand, call ahead about preparation practices, and read reviews.
On the date, a casual “I just need to check with the waiter about the menu” is enough to provide a heads up if needed. A supportive reaction? Great sign. Anything else? Maybe skip dessert.
For inspiration, watch how chef Juan de la Cruz confidently orders for their gluten free partner at a restaurant here.
3. Plan a gluten free date that isn't all about food.
Here’s a refreshing idea: skip the dinner date altogether. The study found that 81% of participants preferred drinks or non-food activities for their first date, likely to remove the pressure of explaining dietary needs right away and simply enjoy the moment.
Some non-food date night ideas could include:
- Mini golf
- Scenic walks
- Kayaking
- Rock climbing
- Ice skating
- Local flea market
- Bowling
- Escape rooms
- Trivia night
- Live music events
- Comedy shows
- Sip and paint
Gluten free dating tip:
If food does come into the picture, why not suggest a “I’ll bring the food, you bring the drinks” picnic? It gives you full control over packing your favourite gluten free snacks where you can clearly check labels and know exactly what you’re eating.
4. Skip the risky behaviours and have a backup plan.
Sometimes, the desire to “fit in” or avoid the discomfort of explaining dietary needs can lead to risky decisions. In fact, the study revealed that 28% of participants admitted to engaging in riskier eating behaviours, and 7.5% intentionally consumed gluten. While it might feel easier in the moment, the reality is the discomfort that follows (and potential long-term damage) is rarely worth it.
On the other hand, while skipping risky behaviours is important, dining out often means putting your trust in someone else to prepare your meal correctly, and that can lead to lingering questions like, “Does the cook understand what is required for it to be truly gluten free?“
That’s when having a backup plan like GluteGuard can help. GluteGuard contains an enzyme which can break down gluten before it causes symptoms. It acts as an extra layer of protection* while you enjoy your meal in situations where cross-contamination, hidden gluten in ingredients like flavourings, or misread labels might catch you off guard.
Gluten free dating tip:
To complement the steps you take to manage your gluten free diet, keep a couple of GluteGuard tablets handy for added peace of mind. If food becomes part of your date, taking one tablet before your meal ensures the enzymes are ready to help handle any gluten surprises.
5. Address gluten free kissing concerns.
It’s a question that probably crosses the mind of anyone on a gluten free diet at some point: Can I kiss someone if they’ve just eaten gluten? According to the study, 39% of participants admitted to hesitating before kissing their partner, worried about the risk of gluten contamination. While the actual risk isn’t fully understood, the concern is understandable when some react to even the smallest traces of gluten.
Gluten free dating tip:
No, we’re not suggesting taking GluteGuard 5-15 minutes before your kiss (though wouldn’t that be convenient?). If it’s a concern, don’t shy away from addressing it in a way that feels comfortable for you.
Alternatively, if you’re prefer to avoid that conversation early on, planning a fully gluten free date for the both of you—whether it’s trying some of our ideas mentioned earlier or sharing a gluten free meal—can help take the guesswork out of the moment.
For more insights on kissing non-gluten free partners, check out this short video by Dr Kim Faulkner-Hogg here.
Make gluten free dating work for you.
Dating while balancing a strict gluten free diet comes with its own set of experiences. Sure, it adds layers of planning, but it’s also a part of your life that deserves understanding. By figuring out what works for you and what makes you feel comfortable, whether that’s being upfront about your needs, choosing dates that aren’t all about food, and having a backup plan for unexpected moments, you can approach dating with more confidence.
References:
1. Lebovits J et al. 2022, Impact of CD on Dating, Digestive Diseases and Sciences, Vol 67, No: 5158–5167
*GluteGuard helps protect those with medically diagnosed gluten sensitivity from symptoms of accidental gluten ingestion. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. For use in conjunction with a gluten free diet.
