Where to Find Alternatives to Food Allergens in London, Ontario
Food allergies and intolerances can be tough to deal with. Celiac disease, lactose intolerance, nut allergies, and other dietary restrictions can really put a damper on a dinner night out or even a run-of-the-mill grocery trip. Tie that in with back-to-school time and restrictions on what your kids can bring to school, and you have a whole new set of problems. Luckily, there are a ton of specialty grocery stores and restaurants right here in London, Ontario that make cooking and eating out a breeze for those with food allergies.
Homeopathy London
Located right in the Covent Garden Market, Homeopathy London specializes in health foods, vitamins, supplements, herbal medicines, nutritional and fitness products, and organic alternatives. Homeopathy London is one of my own personal go-to destinations, every single week. I love their bulk food options! Hemp seeds, cacao nibs, coconut flakes, and “superfood” Turkish mulberries. As for food intolerances, no matter what type of issues you may have or what type of diet you follow, Homeopathy London likely has an item for you. For those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, this health food store carries a variety of gluten-free snacks, from a tasty variety of rice crackers to grain-free buns, bagels, and rolls. (Pro-tip: Don’t just do gluten-free, but consider going grain-free if you’re really trying to knock down inflammation. My favourite grain-free bun is the UnBun, which Homeopathy London keeps in stock.) If meat sensitivities or allergies are a concern, Homeopathy London also sells a variety of vegan and meat-free alternatives, and their staff members are very knowledgeable on this subject. For those who are lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy, Homeopathy London has a ton of dairy-free “cheese” (including London’s own Nuts for Cheese) as well as various nut milk beverages. Besides allergen-free foods, this store is a go-to spot for various organic foods and even skincare!
The Green Window Salad Shop
Gluten-free? Dairy-free? Vegan or vegetarian? This new restaurant is the place for you! Brand new to the London, Ontario food scene, and opened by my good friend Emily Cuddy, The Green Window Salad Shop uses local, fresh ingredients for their healthy salads and bowls. They make all of their delicious and nutritious dressings in-house, and they’re free from refined sugar and canola oil. (It’s so hard to find a restaurant that does not use damaged oils!) The Green Window also proudly mixes each salad fresh to order, meaning they tailor to any dietary restrictions or requests. Nearly their entire menu is gluten-free, and with their create-your-own bowl or salad option, it’s easy to find a lunch suitable for anyone with a food allergy, sensitivity, or intolerance.
Healthy Creations Gluten-Free Bakery
If you’re celiac or gluten intolerant and wondering where to buy gluten-free and grain-free snacks, baked goods, or even a dessert every now and then, Healthy Creations is the place for you. All of their products are gluten-free and many are grain-free, with products made with brown rice flour and almond flour. The bakery can also alter most of their products to suit other dietary requirements and allergens.
Healthy Planet
Healthy Planet is a specialty grocery store chain with a location in London, Ontario that’s ideal for nearly anyone with a special diet, food allergy, or intolerance. Although they specialize in vitamins and supplements, Healthy Planet also carries a plethora of food items. Perfect for the kids to bring to school instead of peanut butter is their variety of nut butters, including almond butter, brazil nut butter, and even pumpkin seed butter. They also carry school-friendly healthy snacks like nut-free granola bars. For those looking for gluten-free foods, Healthy Planet is stocked with celiac-friendly snacks, baking products, and pastas.
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About Dr. B.J. Hardick
Dr. B.J. Hardick is a Doctor of Chiropractic and internationally-recognized natural health author and speaker. His health journey began as a child — alternative medicine is the only medicine he has ever known. In 2009, he authored his first book, Maximized Living Nutrition Plans. In 2018, he authored his second book, Align Your Health. An energizing and passionate speaker, Dr. Hardick shares his lifestyle methods to numerous professional and public audiences every year in the United States and Canada. His teachings encompass the principles of ancestral nutrition, detoxification, functional fitness, mindfulness, and green living. Learn More
