Go Gluten Free With These 10 Easy Steps

Whenever you make changes to your regular routine, it's smart to chat with your doctor or nutritionist. She can give you the big picture, taking into account your heath history and personal information. And it really helps to talk through your plan so everything makes sense. Use the time to get expert advice on a realistic timeline for feeling results and tips for making the transition.

Start your first gluten-free day right with this recipe for avocado baked eggs.

Go through your entire kitchen and get rid of anything that contains gluten. If you're tossing unopened containers, donate to a local food bank. You'll remove any temptations and items that might make your tummy unhappy.

Yes, you can make these gluten-free meatballs for dinner tonight; they replace that pasta you just tossed with spaghetti squash.

Here's the deal: you rarely see the word "gluten" on labels — and it is found in lots of other ingredients. Make a list of things to avoid and keep it handy when you're hitting the grocery store. Gluten can be found in wheat, rye, barley, spelt, and kamut, just to name a few. And some corn products may have gluten components.

Amazing — but true. These pancakes are gluten free.

It's completely normal to stumble, so don't beat yourself up if you cave and nosh on a slice of pizza. Just be prepared for an unhappy stomach or a headache after eating gluten when you've stopped eating it regularly. Have a stash of gluten-free foods, like soup you are already familiar with to enjoy during the transition — and to curb cravings.

The best way to control what's going into your body is to take charge of preparing all your meals. And you might find the process of searching out ingredients, discovering new recipes, and sitting down to a home-cooked meal pretty satisfying. This Mexican tempeh and quinoa salad is a delicious dish for lunch or dinner.

But it's also nice to be able to go out and enjoy a meal in a restaurant or pick up takeout on a busy night. Find gluten-free restaurants in your neighborhood so you have go-tos when you want to dine out. Same goes for specialty stores that cater to gluten-free eaters with baked goods that hit all your cravings.

This recipe for Cobb salad is an easy lunch that's delish with a gluten-free roll.

If constantly having to check your gluten-free list is a bit overwhelming, map your grocery store for foods that fit your new diet. The seafood and meat counter provide gluten-free proteins, the produce aisle is packed with healthy options, while your cereal and canned-goods sections also carry labeled gluten-free foods.

Check out this flavorful recipe for gluten-free shrimp and grits.

When you come across a gluten-free item that you love, load up your grocery cart and build a fully stocked pantry of delicious packaged foods. This way you always have something for sharing at gatherings or as a grab-and-go lunch.

And yes, you can still indulge in sweets, like this recipe for fudge.

Make life easier and load your phone with apps that help you stick with your gluten-free diet. Find Me Gluten Free is a free app that helps you locate gluten-free restaurants based on your location. ShopWell lets you scan your grocery item to double-check it's safe before purchasing — and it's also free.

And you can easily locate all the ingredients at your local grocery store for this comforting butternut squash chili.

When heading to a dinner party or even out for drinks with friends, you might find yourself without gluten-free options. It's totally OK to bring your own food to eat so you aren't left starving. But you can also navigate sticky situations by opting for grilled proteins or fresh produce.

You're going to love these gluten-free protein bars.