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INFO: How to Survive on a Special Diet at Walt Disney World

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Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be intense. Aside from the very real FOMO we get when mapping out all there is to do during those vacation days, there’s also the worry about what the weather will be like, what to wear, which rides require a FastPass, and, most importantly, where to eat!

Let’s be honest with ourselves, it always, ultimately, comes down to food. About three times a day, we are always racking our brains on figuring out where and what to eat – there’s just too many options to choose from! Yet, what if those options are suddenly diet-restricted? Whether it be a life choice or mandatory dietary requirement, eating out can be a challenging obstacle for those who follow special diets like gluten-free, dairy-free, wheat-free, vegan and vegetarian, etc. Also, many of us can’t let go of our diets for other heath-related issues. That said, it is encouraging to know that Disney has it all covered.

Years ago, special dietary requests required speaking directly with a chef or special diets Cast Member to place an order. Though guests may still consult when in doubt, Disney has expanded their mindful food offerings – and they can be ordered directly from the menu at most dining locations.

As for vegetarians and vegans, you may be surprised to know that plant-based options are available at most locations throughout the parks and Disney Springs (even at outdoor kitchens at EPCOT festivals). In fact, meatless options have been noted on menus with a green leaf icon since 2019.

Curious about which dining locations would best meet your dietary needs? Go to Walt Disney World’s website, click on Things To Do, then All Restaurants. From there, you can view all the menus and food offerings at every restaurant. If your eyes need more convincing, check out Vegan Disney World on Instagram or here. All the photos featured below are from this very knowledgeable blogger who has been sharing vegan food (and gluten-free options as well) since 2014! You will find suggestions on dishes and dining locations that will have you traveling like a foodie pro!

Do you have a special diet or  food-allergy? If so, where are your favorite go-to dining spots in Walt Disney World?

 Thinking about booking your next Disney Destination Vacation?
I can help you in the planning and the making of a magical getaway! Send me an email adrianabonetti@d2travel.com
                                                                                                                         You can also find me on Facebook Destinations To Travel With Adriana Bonetti and Instagram @D2TravelAdriana.

 

Visiting Disneyland with Diabetes ~ By Linda Myers of Up and Up Travel

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Visiting Disneyland with Diabetes ~ By Linda Myers

Linda Myers is a writer for Up and Up Travel, a Disney travel agency for families and groups of disabilities and special needs.

Traveling with diabetes is much like living with diabetes on a daily basis: It requires common sense and sufficient planning.
The most important factor in optimizing your experience at Disneyland while coping with your diabetes, as well as that of a child or companion, is to adjust your itinerary to fit the demands of your routine — and not the other way around.
From making sure you have all the supplies you’ll need for any contingency to knowing where to go if your blood sugar does get to low, there are steps you can take to make your trip a breeze. Your planning, combined with the services offered by Disneyland, will ensure that you’ll have all of your bases covered before you hit your first attraction.

familydisney-upanduptravelDiabetes and Disneyland: Tips for Your Trip

1. Do your best to stick to your routine. When it comes to traveling, it’s critical to expect the unexpected. From delayed flights to lost luggage and taxis that never arrive, the plain truth is that anything can and does happen. As such, you’ll need to keep your basic necessities with you at all times. If your travel takes you across time zones, make sure that medications, including insulin pumps, are adjusted accordingly.

2. Lack of activity can affect blood sugar, so if your trip requires that you sit or walk around for extended periods, be sure that you are able to test your blood sugar and adjust accordingly. Sitting for long periods can raise blood glucose levels, while a lot of walking can do the opposite.

3. One of the most difficult aspects of travel for all of us is managing what we eat. We simply have much less control of our dietary options while on the road, so it’s essential to check blood glucose levels before and after you eat. Additionally, a little research into at least some of the dining options you’ll have at your destination could both provide insight and increase your comfort level.

4. Have a discussion with your doctor about your trip to Disneyland, as he or she can help you devise a plan for what to do if your blood sugar becomes too high or too low. Having a doctor’s note on hand is also a good idea, especially if you’re traveling by plane and need to carry your supplies, which may include syringes, onboard.

5. Bring some snacks and backup supplies in case an insulin pump fails, or some of your medication is compromised. Be sure that your lodgings offer a refrigerator for insulin and other supplies that may need to be kept cool.

How Disneyland Can Help

1. Disneyland offers a lot in the way of dietary accommodations, and it allows guests with allergies and, or, special dietary needs to bring food into the park.

2. Disneyland offers First-Aid stations that you can easily utilize if you need to make changes or adjustments to an insulin pump, use or dispose of syringes, or get some help in the case of an emergency.

3. If your diabetes prevents you from standing in lines for long periods of time, consider using the FASTPASS option, which allows you to schedule a time to ride an attraction. In extreme cases, you may also be eligible for a Disability Access Service Card, though this is typically reserved for the cognitively disabled. Eligibility is determined by staff on site at the Guest Relations station.

Like living with diabetes, traveling with diabetes can be a wonderful and rewarding adventure. With practical foresight and planning that encompasses potential requirements, Disneyland can be exciting for you and for your whole group. The park goes a long way in accommodation a vast array of visitors, which includes those with health challenges that might otherwise keep them at home. If visiting Disneyland is on your to-do list, take advantage of all of the wonderful tools at your disposal and start planning your big adventure today.

Linda Myers is a writer for Up and Up Travel, a Disney travel agency for families and groups of disabilities and special needs.

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