As athletes, we know the importance of proper nutrition to perform at our best. For those of us with celiac disease, finding the right foods can be a challenge. Eating gluten-free doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or enjoyment, though. With some creativity and planning, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious meals that will fuel your athletic performance.

When you're traveling for competitions, it can be even more challenging to find gluten-free options. That's why it's important to communicate with your coaches and let them know what foods you can and cannot eat. Don't be afraid to ask for specific foods that you enjoy and can tolerate.

To get you started, here's a list of recipes for snacks, breakfasts, lunches, and dinners that are gluten-free and athlete-friendly. These recipes are just a starting point, so feel free to make adjustments based on your preferences and dietary needs.

Remember, cooking can be a fun and creative process. If you don't like an ingredient, substitute it out for something else. If you're allergic to an ingredient, remove it from the recipe. Experiment with different flavors and textures to find what works best for you.

What if you’re traveling on a sports trip and you can’t buy groceries or make your food? Here’s a few options you or your coach can grab that are quick, cheap, and easy to eat.

Here are 10 easy and cheap recipes an athlete or coach could implement while traveling, taking into consideration that there is no kitchen to cook or prepare food:

1. Gluten-free sandwich: Bring some gluten-free bread, deli meat, cheese, and condiments. You can make a sandwich on the go and pack it with some fresh fruits or vegetables as a side.

2. Yogurt parfait: Bring some plain Greek yogurt, gluten-free granola, and fresh fruit. Layer them in a jar or container for an easy and nutritious breakfast or snack.

3. Salad in a jar: Layer your favorite salad ingredients in a jar, starting with the dressing at the bottom and ending with the greens on top. When you're ready to eat, just shake and enjoy.

4. Rice cakes with toppings: Bring some gluten-free rice cakes and pack them with toppings like peanut butter, sliced banana, honey, or hummus and vegetables.

5. Trail mix: Mix together some nuts, dried fruit, and gluten-free cereal or popcorn for a portable and filling snack.

6. Fruit and nut butter sandwich: Instead of using bread, use a sliced apple or pear as the base for a sandwich. Spread some nut butter on top and add some sliced fruit and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

7. Sushi rolls: Look for pre-packaged gluten-free sushi rolls at the grocery store or sushi restaurant. They usually come with a side of gluten-free soy sauce and pickled ginger.

8. Bento box: Pack a variety of gluten-free snacks and sides in a portable bento box, such as hard-boiled eggs, rice balls, sliced vegetables, and gluten-free crackers or pretzels.

9. Protein shake: Bring some pre-packaged gluten-free protein powder and a shaker bottle. Mix with water or a dairy-free milk alternative for an easy post-workout snack.

10. Rice paper rolls: Look for gluten-free rice paper wraps and fill them with shredded vegetables, protein (such as chicken or shrimp), and a dipping sauce made with gluten-free ingredients like tamari, lime juice, and honey.

These options are easy to prepare, require minimal equipment, and can be customized to fit your athlete's preferences and dietary needs. It's important to also make sure that any packaged products are certified gluten-free and not cross-contaminated.

1. Rice cakes

2. Fresh fruit (apples, bananas, oranges, grapes)

3. Nuts (almonds, peanuts, cashews)

4. Dried fruit (raisins, apricots, dates)

5. Popcorn (plain or lightly salted)

6. Gluten-free pretzels

7. Gluten-free granola bars

8. Peanut butter or almond butter

9. Hummus with vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, cucumber)

10. Gluten-free crackers

11. Beef or turkey jerky

12. Rice noodles or gluten-free pasta

13. Canned tuna or salmon

14. Rice or quinoa bowls with vegetables and protein

15. Hard-boiled eggs

It's important to note that while these options are relatively cheap, they may still vary in price depending on the location and availability of gluten-free products. It's also important to check the labels and ensure that they are truly gluten-free and not cross-contaminated.

Now, let’s look at how you can eat at home when you have the time and the tools to prepare food.

Have other recipes you love that you want to share with the community? Comment below with your favorites and spread the love!