A Small Bite, A Big Win: Sharing A Gluten-Free Dish with My Father

Tatay swapped his side veggies to have some of my gluten-free pasta

[At Petrini’s San Diego]

Last month, for the first time, I shared a gluten-free dish with my Tatay.

Now, why is this a big deal? Because my Tatay is old school—very set in his ways, with a simple, no-fuss palate. No fancy sauces, herbs, or seasonings. So imagine his reaction when I was diagnosed with UC and started throwing around terms like gluten-free, FODMAP, and anti-inflammatory diet.

For years, he’d grumble whenever I made adjustments to familiar dishes. If I cooked gluten-free pasta for myself, he’d insist on “gluten-full” pasta for him. But this time, things were different. I think his eagerness to trade his veggies for a pasta side dish made him curious enough to ask, “Pwede ba akong makikain niyan?” (Can I have some of that?)

Of course, I happily obliged.

This moment reminded me how important it is for patients to involve their loved ones in their journey—even if it’s just making them aware of what it takes to navigate food restrictions at home or when dining out. It may take time, but small moments like these show that change is possible.

So thank you, Tatay, for stepping out of your comfort zone. Here’s to more shared meals—gluten-free or otherwise. ❤️