Dating And Your Diet

Posted by Healthy Bitch Daily on Nov 8, 2012

Don't let your food sensitivities scare away a mate. Here are some tips for coping with your diet and your dude.


It's one thing being a, shall we say, "discerning eater" when you're flying solo.

But add a lover to the mix and shit can get uncomfortable real quick.

It's hard enough to introduce a new beau to your crazy parents or reassure him your stuffed animal collection is nothing but a sentimental keepsake. (We know they're your friends--it's OK, sweetie.) But tell him you have a gluten intolerance, a dairy allergy or just a moral issue with eating meat? Some men have to resist the urge to bolt in the other direction.

We're not sure what it is, but food sensitivities and special dietary requirements tend to make people squeamish. Sometimes, they simply don't want to hear about it, and other times they'll just chalk up your choices as picky eating.

How to avoid dating drama? Take a chill pill and lean on these tips to get past the questions and on to the heavy petting.

Be honest up front. If you're a gluten-free girl, you don't have to get into the gross bathroom experiences, but giving your guy a few details about your digestive issues will help nix embarrassing situations in the future. Break it down for him by explaining that going gluten-free has given you more energy and eased your stomach woes, making you a healthier, more sparkly princess. Same rule applies for vegans.

Show him you're still a cupcake. Assure him your dietary requirements don't make you an insufferable bitch by inviting him over to your place for a dinner. Rice or quinoa pasta smothered in freshly made pesto or a plate packed with warm gluten-free and vegan brownies are sure to show him you're far from high-maintenance.

Say thank you. Whether it's dealing with an asshole server in a restaurant or helping you through unpleasant stomach pains, your guy deserves a pat on the back when he acts like a true Prince Charming. Let's face it: It's not always easy to deal with your special needs. That doesn't make you wrong, but when your man does it without breaking a sweat, make sure to show him you appreciate it with a little lovin'.  

Swap gluten-free spit. Depending on your level of sensitivity, remind your guy that his pretzel lips and beer breath are no match for your gluten-free kisser. Flash him that sweet smile and tell him you'll meet him between the sheets--after he brushes those pearly whites.

Truth be told, special dietary requirements aren't always a picnic in the park--you know that. But the average guy will handle it with ease if you do. And, honestly, don't sweat it, darling. The right man will cater to your every food need as long as you're sure to make him feel like a rock star, too.

How do you cope with special dietary requirements while dating? Leave a note in the comments section below.


Caroline Shannon-Karasik, Resident Gluten-Free Expert
Caroline Shannon-Karasik is the founder of The G-Spot Revolution , a gluten-free, healthy living blog built upon the premise that there is not a one-size-fits-all prescription for total wellness. Whether you call it your personal health "spot", or ooo-la-la recipe, that serendipitous life balance is yours to define –– and The G-Spot was created to help you do just that. Standing behind her mission to share health information through her writing, Caroline is a freelance writer for several publications, including REDBOOK and Breathe magazines. Follow her on Twitter @TheGSpotRev or read more at www.carolineshannon.com.