Don't Feed the Fear: Allergy Anxiety & Trauma

Send us Fan MailIn this special Allergy & Asthma Awareness Month episode, psychologist and food allergy advocate Manda Rene sits down with Kenny Mendez, President and CEO of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), for a conversation about advocacy, policy change, and the future of support for the allergy and asthma community.Together, they discuss the emotional and practical realities families face while navigating food allergies and asthma, the importance of community-driven advocacy, and the work AAFA has done to support meaningful legislative change, including California’s groundbreaking restaurant allergen labeling law, The ADDE Law.Kenny also shares insight into stock epinephrine laws, how advocacy efforts move through legislation, and why community involvement matters more than people often realize.This episode offers both hope and practical perspective for parents, patients, clinicians, and advocates looking to better understand how systemic change happens.Some of AAFA's Resources: My Life With: https://aafa.org/asthma-allergy-research/our-research/my-life-with-food-allergy-report/Ask The Allergist: https://community.aafa.org/db/ask-the-allergist Recipes: https://kidswithfoodallergies.org/recipes-diet/ AAFANoon Chats Podcast: https://aafa.org/asthma-allergy-news/podcasts/Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailFPIES (Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome) is a type of food allergy that often goes unrecognized, leaving families confused, dismissed, and searching for answers.In this episode, I’m joined by iFPIES founder Fallon Schultz, MSW, LCSW, to explore both the clinical and lived experience of FPIES. Fallon shares her personal story, the challenges of navigating a diagnosis that doesn’t fit the typical food allergy mold, and how that journey led her to create a vital resource for families.We discuss what FPIES is, how it differs from IgE-mediated food allergies, the different types and presentations, and why more families may be encountering FPIES in the context of early food introduction guidelines.We also talk about the social/emotional impact of navigating unpredictable reactions, and the importance of community, validation, and trauma-informed support.Whether you’re a parent, provider, or advocate, this episode offers both clarity and compassion for a frequently misunderstood condition.Connect with iFPIES atfpies.org@ifpiesFPIES Action Plan: https://fpies.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/all-ages-FPIES-ACTION-PLAN.pdfLoni's Lounge (free FPIES support): https://fpies.org/lonis-lounge/Customizable FPIES Dining Card: https://fpies.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/IFPIES-Dining-Out-Card.pdfSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailEnvironmental allergies can significantly impact daily life, from chronic congestion and itchy eyes to sleep disruption and reduced quality of life. If daily medications aren't enough, there are longer-term treatment options available.In this episode, pediatric allergist Dr. Manisha Relan joins us to break down two forms of allergen immunotherapy: SCIT (allergy shots) and SLIT (sublingual tablets or drops). We discuss how they work, who is a good candidate, the time commitment involved, safety considerations, and how patients and families can approach the decision thoughtfully.Episode Links:-Dr. Relan on Instagram and Threads: @pedsallergymd-Find an allergist https://allergist.aaaai.org/find/ or https://acaai.org/find-an-allergist/-101 Before One: https://www.101beforeone.com/-Book Baby Leads The Way: https://bookshop.org/p/books/baby-leads-the-way-an-evidence-based-guide-to-introducing-solid-foods-catherine-callahan-ms-ccc-slp-clc/6de5272603742aab?ean=9781610027625&next=tFollow me on social media @thefoodallergypsychologist and sign up for my newsletter on my website for updates on my book, From Fear to Freedom: A Workbook for Navigating Allergy Immunotherapy, coming in June!https://www.thefoodallergypsychologist.com/connectSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailMy second guest for this special podcast season guiding listeners through the immunotherapy process welcomes back Dr. David Stukus, Director of the Food Allergy Treatment Center at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio and  President-Elect of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI).Dr. Stukus shares his clinical approach to preparing patients for food allergy immunotherapy, including the role of diagnostic testing, oral food challenges, and threshold challenges in clarifying treatment decisions. The discussion also addresses the mental preparation required for immunotherapy, common fears and hesitations families experience, and what realistic benefits patients can expect during and "after" treatment.Listeners will gain insight into:What medical tests and food challenges may be recommended and whyHow allergists assess readiness for immunotherapyThe common “bumps in the road” during treatmentWhat happens once maintenance is reachedAnd how to think about long-term outcomes when treatment is considered “done”This episode offers practical, evidence-based guidance for families seeking clarity before beginning food allergy treatment.-Follow Dr. Stukus on Instagram @pedsallergydoc-Retail Food Equivalents for OIT article:https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2213219822010650 -Dr. Stukus' first appearance on the Don't Feed the Fear podcast (Episode 18):https://www.buzzsprout.com/2371319/episodes/16808272Follow me on social media @thefoodallergypsychologist and sign up for my newsletter on my website for updates on my book, From Fear to Freedom: A Workbook for Navigating Allergy Immunotherapy, coming in June!https://www.thefoodallergypsychologist.com/connectSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailWe are living in an exciting time in food allergy medicine with multiple treatment options to choose some and likely more on the way soon. But more options can also mean more overwhelm. I've invited some of the world's foremost experts in allergy to join me for this exciting season guiding us through these choices and decisions to lead us from overwhelm to confidence.In this episode, Dr. Shahzad Mustafa joins us to talk about how shared decision making helps families make treatment decisions without panic or pressure. Dr. Mustafa gives us an overview of our options and explains how he guides patients through their decisions using a collaborative, values-based approach that balances medical evidence, risk tolerance, and individual goals. This conversation is about partnership, clarifying goals and needs, and making medical decisions through an informed and individualized lens. Episode links: Dr. Mustafa - https://www.rochesterregional.org/providers/syed-s-mustafa#January 2026 article, "Updates in the Management of Peanut Allergy" - https://www.annualreviews.org/content/journals/10.1146/annurev-med-050224-121037Follow me on social media @thefoodallergypsychologist and sign up for my newsletter on my website for updates on my book, From Fear to Freedom: A Workbook for Navigating Allergy Immunotherapy, coming in June!https://www.thefoodallergypsychologist.com/connectSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailThis season we are discussing options in food allergies. This week's episode begins a deep dive into one of the most complex and emotional parts of living with food allergies: treatment options.With more treatment options available than ever before, patients and families are facing decisions that are both hopeful and overwhelming. These choices are not just medical. They are deeply emotional, shaped by past experiences, anxiety, trauma, and the realities of individual characteristics and daily life.In this solo episode, I share:Why more choices can sometimes make decisions harder The psychological side of treatment decisions that often gets overlooked What anxiety and past reactions can bring into the process Our personal journey through multiple allergy treatments, including the challenges, pivots, unexpected outcomes, and my most treasured moments and surprisesI’m also sharing a big announcement about something I've created to take the work from this season even deeper for those making decisions or navigating treatment.Whether you are considering treatment, currently in it, or choosing not to pursue it, this episode will help you feel less alone and more confident in your path.Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I'm joined by Scott Lyman, CEO and Co-Founder of Belhaven BioPharma, to discuss Nasdepi®, an investigational dry powder epinephrine nasal spray currently in development for the treatment of anaphylaxis.Nasdepi® is designed as a needle-free alternative to traditional auto-injectors, with early clinical data suggesting rapid absorption and strong temperature stability.We talk about:Why alternative delivery systems matterNeedle fears and other real-world barriers to carrying epinephrineHuman factor studies and ease of use in high-stress situationsWhat “investigational” means and where the product stands in developmentThis episode is part of a broader series exploring epinephrine options beginning with episode 67. As always, this podcast does not promote any specific product, just information and education. Episode links:-Nasdepi: https://belhavenbio.com/nasdepi-progress/Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Vivian Hernandez-Trujillo, board-certified allergist and food allergy mom and patient, for a grounded and practical conversation about epinephrine confidence.We talk about what it’s like to manage food allergies both personally and professionally, why so many families hesitate in emergencies, and how familiarity, not fear, is what truly helps in moments of anaphylaxis. Dr. Hernandez-Trujillo walks us through how patients can build confidence using epinephrine, including the unique features of AUVI-Q.The goal of the episode is to help families understand their options and feel more supported as new tools become available in the food allergy space. This episode is not sponsored, and I am not promoting any single epinephrine device. 🎥 The full video version of this episode, including the AUVI-Q demonstration, is available on YouTube: @dontfeedthefear Links:AUVI-Q information and training resources: https://www.auvi-q.comDr. Hernandez-Trujillo: https://www.sflallergy.com/about-usPrevious episodes with Dr. Pistiner:New Criteria for Infant and Toddler Anaphylaxis:https://dontfeedthefear.buzzsprout.com/2371319/episodes/18014268Safe Epi Use for Infants and Toddlers:https://dontfeedthefear.buzzsprout.com/2371319/episodes/18209067Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailMany of our nervous systems become very skilled at scanning for danger. This is not a flaw. It is a protective response that develops when life has required us to stay alert. But when the nervous system spends most of its time looking for what might go wrong, it can begin to overlook the signals of safety that are also present.This session introduces the concept of glimmers. These are small moments, usually sensory experiences, that signal safety to the nervous system. They might be simple things like warmth, supportive contact with the ground, pleasant sounds, or a brief sense of ease in the body.This practice helps you gently train your attention to notice moments when your body receives the message that, right now, you are safe. Over time, intentionally noticing these moments can help your nervous system become more flexible, settled, and responsive.Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailThis is the first guest episode in a season of the Don't Feed the Fear podcast dedicated to something many of us are feeling deeply right now: the excitement and overwhelm that comes with how quickly the food allergy landscape is changing.With more options, devices, information, and opinions bombarding us, many feel unsure of what to trust, what actually matters, and how to make decisions that feel grounded rather than reactive.My guest today is Dr. Farah Khan, a board-certified allergist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital who has become a trusted voice online in the food allergy community. Dr. Khan often says she’s not quite sure why her audience grew so quickly, but I think it's because she offers something many are craving in their uncertainty:  clear, direct, evidence-based answers.In this conversation, Dr. Khan walks us through epinephrine myths and misinformation, the different devices available, and what matters most when choosing yours. We created this episode to help you feel more confident and less overwhelmed as you navigate your options.Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailLiving with food allergies or celiac disease often requires careful decision making. Reading labels, asking questions, and evaluating risk are important parts of staying safe. Over time, though, the nervous system can become so used to scanning for danger that it becomes difficult to tell the difference between healthy caution and anxiety driven fear.This guided meditation helps you slow down and notice how these different signals may feel in your body.Instead of trying to eliminate caution, this practice supports learning how to recognize the steady, grounded feeling of appropriate awareness while also noticing the sensations that tend to come with fear, urgency, or anxious overthinking.By becoming more familiar with these physical cues, many people find it easier to make decisions from a place of clarity rather than pressure or panic.During this meditation you will be invited to:• tune into subtle body sensations • notice how caution and anxiety may feel different internally • create space between physical signals and anxious thoughts • reconnect with a sense of grounded awareness when making safety decisionsThis meditation may be especially helpful if you:• live with food allergies or celiac disease • feel stuck in constant food safety decision making • notice your body becoming tense or overwhelmed in situations involving food • want to strengthen trust in your ability to read your body's signalsNo meditation experience is needed. Simply listen and allow yourself to notice what your body communicates.Over time, practices like this can help restore a sense of steadiness and confidence when navigating food related decisions.Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailOf course you feel anxious sometimes managing food allergies and celiac. Many patients and families believe that a little anxiety keeps us safe, that fear keeps us vigilant, and that without it we might become careless.But is that actually true?In this episode, Dr. Whitehouse explores the difference between stress, overwhelm, anxiety, and trauma, and why those distinctions matter so much for food allergy families. She explains how the nervous system works during threat states, why anxiety can actually impair decision-making, and what truly supports safe, sustainable allergy management.You’ll learn:• Why anxiety and caution are not the same thing • How nervous system regulation affects allergy decision-making • Why fear is a poor filter for complex choices • What actually keeps food allergy families safe • How to shift from fear-driven vigilance to informed awarenessIf you’ve ever wondered whether the anxiety you carry is protecting you or exhausting you, this episode will offer a fresh perspective.Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailLisa Cohen created the Kyah Rayne Foundation in honor of her daughter Kyah, who died following to an allergic reaction.As we approach Kyah’s birthday on March 17, Lisa shares Kyah’s story and the mission behind the foundation, with a focus on food allergy education, epinephrine access, and the importance of knowing how to respond in an emergency.Together, we discuss common misconceptions about epinephrine, why hesitation can be dangerous, and how education empowers individuals and communities to act with confidence. This emotional conversation honors Kyah’s life the best way her mother knows how: with life-saving insights for families, caregivers, educators, and anyone who wants to be better prepared.https://www.kyahraynefoundation.org/Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailFood allergy care does not exist in a vacuum, and neither do the families managing it.In this episode, pediatric psychologist Dr. Linda Jones Herbert and pediatric allergist Dr. Hemant Sharma from Children’s National Hospital join the conversation to explore how disparities in food allergy diagnosis, treatment access, and outcomes are shaped by psychosocial and systemic factors.We discuss insights so far from the FORWARD study about how stress, culture, language, and resources impact allergy management in underserved communities, and what it means when families are underrepresented in oral immunotherapy research and access. Dr. Herbert also shares her work on the GAP study, which examines global access to psychological care for individuals and families managing food allergies.This episode is a call to move beyond assumptions and toward allergy care that is culturally responsive, equitable, and grounded in real-world context.Links:Food Allergy Stages handouts:https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/allergies/food-allergy-stages-handoutshttps://www.aaaai.org/Aaaai/media/Media-Library-PDFs/Allergist%20Resources/Statements%20and%20Practice%20Parameters/Addressing-Health-Disparities-in-Food-Allergy-position-statement-Jan-2025.pdfSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailLiving with food allergies often creates distance between us and friends, family, schools, and communities that don’t fully understand what our safety requires. This episode compassionately addresses the growing sense of isolation many food allergy families experience and why advice like “just go no contact” or “let them” often misses the reality of chronic illness.Isolation can feel protective but ultimately becomes unsustainable and unhealthy. This episode offers a more nuanced framework for boundaries, influence, and connection that balances safety and belonging.Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailWhat does food allergy safety look like when systems don’t work equally for everyone?In this episode, I’m joined by Erin Malawer, founder of Allergy Strong, to explore how inequities in education, resources, and institutional support shape the lived experience of food allergy families. Erin’s work focuses on improving safety and access at the community level so that protection doesn’t depend on privilege or proximity.Together, we discuss:How gaps in food allergy education and policy disproportionately impact certain familiesWhy awareness alone isn’t enough without structural changeThe emotional toll of navigating systems that don’t reliably protect children with food allergiesThis conversation invites listeners to move beyond individual responsibility and consider what it means to build food allergy care that is safer, fairer, and more inclusive for everyone.Follow Allergy Strong:@AllergyStrongallergystrong.comErin's blog, Allergy Shmallergy:https://shmallergy.wordpress.com/In this episode, Erin also mentions the work of Lianne Mandlebaum, No Nut Traveler, on airplane regulations and policies for food allergies:@nonuttravelernonuttraveler.comSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I’m joined by Renia Butler, founder of Black Allergy Mama, for an honest and powerful conversation about race, food allergy advocacy, and mental health.Renia shares her personal journey navigating food allergies as a Black mother, the systemic gaps she witnessed firsthand, and how those experiences fueled her advocacy work. We explore the emotional labor families carry, the importance of representation and trust in medical care, and how food allergy spaces can—and must—become more inclusive and trauma-informed.This episode is essential listening for parents, clinicians, advocates, and anyone who wants to better understand the full human experience behind food allergy care.https://blackallergymama.com/@blackallergymamaAlso mentioned in this episode:Elijah Alavi Foundation: https://www.elijahalavifoundation.org/Food Equality Initiative: https://www.foodequalityinitiative.org/Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, psychologist Lisa Lombard, Ph.D. shares insights from her clinical experience and research background in food allergy. She also shares aspects of her work that led to the creation of Comfort Kits, tools designed to support children experiencing trauma. We talk about why safety and imagination matter so much for healing, and how small, intentional interventions can make a meaningful difference for kids and families.We also explore Dr. Lombard’s extensive work with hypnotherapy, including her role as President of the National Pediatric Hypnosis Training Institute (NPHTI), where she trains clinicians to incorporate hypnosis into pediatric care. Dr. Lombard breaks down common misconceptions, explains what hypnotherapy actually looks like in practice, and shares why it can be especially helpful for children navigating chronic illness, procedures, and anxiety.This episode is for parents, clinicians, and anyone interested in gentle, evidence-based ways to support regulation, resilience, and healing. It’s a reminder that care doesn’t have to be forceful to be effective, and that feeling safe is the necessary foundation for healing and growth.Episode Links:lisalombardphd.comNPHTI.orgcomfortkitsforchildren.orgSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Zachary Rubin, board-certified allergist-immunologist, educator, and one of the most trusted voices in allergy and immunology on social media.Dr. Rubin has built a massive following by breaking down complex medical topics with calm, evidence-based guidance. In our conversation, we go beyond viral posts to explore what it actually means to navigate allergic disease in the modern information landscape.We discuss how social media shapes patient anxiety and expectations, and Dr. Rubin shares insights from his upcoming book All About Allergies, available for pre-order now and releasing in February, which focuses on empowering patients with accurate, compassionate, and practical medical information.This episode is an invitation to approach health information with curiosity instead of panic, and to remember that good care is about helping people feel better, not just managing symptoms.Links:Dr. Rubin: https://www.oakbrookallergists.com/our-team/zachary-e-rubin-md/Book preorder (releases 2/24/26): https://bookshop.org/p/books/all-about-allergies-everything-you-need-to-know-about-asthma-food-allergies-hay-fever-and-more-zachary-rubin/a2fea4994be4ecf4?ean=9798217047970&next=tSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailWhen you live with food allergies, celiac disease, or another chronic condition, your nervous system is asked to stay alert every single day. This ongoing vigilance is not imagined anxiety. It is a physiological adaptation to real risk.In this guided meditation, Dr. Whitehouse invites you to experience self care as nervous system re-education rather than another task to perform. Through gentle breathing, somatic awareness, and compassionate reflection, you will explore how everyday acts of self-care teach the body that it can be safe, even when you are not perfect, productive, or pleasing others.This practice is grounded in polyvagal theory and research on chronic illness, anxiety, and self regulation. It is designed for anyone who feels chronically on edge, emotionally exhausted, or unsure how to rest in a body trained to stay alert.There is nothing broken that needs to be fixed.You are teaching your nervous system something new.Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailSelf-care is often framed as indulgent, aesthetic, or optional, but for individuals and families managing food allergies or other chronic conditions, it is essential.In this solo episode, I explore misconceptions about self-care means, and how it is uniquely difficult in food allergy and celiac life.This episode covers:Why food allergy management creates chronic nervous system activationWhy our nervous systems resist self-careHow self-care functions as nervous system regulation, not indulgenceThis conversation is for anyone who feels like self-care is a luxury or a burden rather than a necessity.Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailThis guided pranayama meditation is led by Dr. Gary Soffer, allergist-immunologist and integrative medicine physician, and was recorded as part of our New Year conversation on health, healing, and self-care (episode 57).In this practice, Dr. Soffer offers a gentle, accessible breathing technique drawn from yogic traditions and adapted by Dr. Andrew Weil. This practice is a gentle introduction to pranayama perfect for beginners. It is supportive for those managing food allergies, chronic illness, health anxiety, or caregiver stress.This track is offered as a companion to the full podcast episode with Dr. Soffer, and can be revisited whenever you need a moment of grounding.Follow Dr. Soffer on IG @garysoffermdSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailAs we begin a new year and many are reflecting on their health and recommitting to self-car, this episode invites a deeper, more expansive conversation about what health actually means, especially for those living with food allergies, chronic illness, or caregiver stress.In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Gary Soffer, allergist-immunologist and integrative medicine physician, for a thoughtful discussion about the intersection of conventional medicine and integrative care. Dr. Soffer shares his path into integrative medicine, common misconceptions about what it is (and isn’t), and why approaches rooted in ancient traditions (breathwork, meditation, yoga, mindfulness) remain profoundly relevant in modern medical care.Dr. Soffer's perspective offers powerful mindset shifts for how patients and caregivers can relate differently to their health, their symptoms, and the medical system itself.Instead of the usual 3 Action Steps at the end of the episode, we concludes with three rounds of a gentle guided pranayama breathing practice led by Dr. Soffer. This short and simple exercise is a perfect way for beginners to learn a new practice.Follow Dr. Soffer on Instagram @garysoffermdSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this inspiring New Year episode, Riya Jain joins us to share how growing up with food allergies fueled The Land of Can book series. She is a young entrepreneur, author, and food allergy advocate who won a major venture prize at Duke her freshman year to develop her business.Riya also talks about participating in an upcoming documentary about food allergies, what it's like being the daughter of a leading allergy researcher, and forging her own path.At a time of year when many of us are reflecting on our resolutions, Riya reminds us to embrace what we CAN do. https://thelandofcan.com/https://www.justlikeyoufilms.org/https://yobeecare.com/Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailThis episode is a heartwarming and eye-opening look at what life is like with a food allergy detection dog. My guest, Natalie Rice, shares how their family decided to train a peanut detection dog to help manage her daughter's food allergy. Natalie shares how having this remarkable companion has transformed daily life, and how she is using Harley's skills to help others with allergies, too.We also discuss:How Harley alerts for allergens, and Natalie's handling processWhat life looks like day-to-day with a working allergy dogHow a detection dog supports emotional well-being as much as physical safetyWhether you’re considering a detection dog, have always been curious about how they work, or just love a good story about the bond between humans and dogs, this episode is heartwarming all around.https://www.detectiveharleyfadd.com/@detectiveharleyfaddHarley's trainer: @noseydogdetectionSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailFood should bring joy, comfort, nourishment, and safety, but food allergies and chronic illness often turn food into something stressful, restrictive, or scary.Lauren Less, creator of Less with Laur, is here to talk about her experiences with adult-diagnosed food allergies, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS).Lauren brings her training as a mental health professional and her passion for healthy, mindful cooking and living into a conversation about how living with food allergies and restrictions can affect mental health, body image, and identity. Together, we explore how to begin restoring joy, creativity, and connection in the kitchen again.Lauren opens up about her transition out of the mental health field, the lessons she’s carried forward into her work, and the practical ways she helps people find peace with food again. Follow Lauren:https://lesswithlaur.com/@lesswithlaur Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailThis 11-minute guided reflection helps food allergic/celiac individuals and food allergy parents pause, reset, and listen to their own internal “yes” and “no” signals during the busy holiday season. Using gentle, polyvagal-informed cues and somatic reflection, you’ll explore what feels nourishing versus uncomfortable and create an internal guide for identifying boundaries to honor this holiday season and all year long. This practice supports nervous system regulation, reduces stress, and helps you navigate holiday expectations with clarity, compassion, and confidence. Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this special crossover episode, Dr. Whitehouse shares a recent guest appearance on The Itch Podcast (episode 132), where she joined hosts Dr. Payel Gupta and Kortney Kwong Hing for an open and compassionate conversation about navigating difficult family interactions during the holiday season. Together, they unpack how to set and maintain boundaries, communicate effectively, and stay grounded in the face of emotional triggers, expectations, and family histories.This episode offers both validation and practical strategies for anyone who finds the holidays to be more complex than joyful. It’s about protecting your peace, holding compassion for yourself and others, and remembering that it’s okay to celebrate the season in a way that honors your emotional wellbeing.Find The Itch wherever you get your podcasts:https://www.itchpodcast.com/@theitchpodcastSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailThis grounding meditation supports tweens, teens, and adults navigating oral immunotherapy (OIT), Tolerance Induction Program (TIP), sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), or any allergy dosing protocol. Using science-based nervous system strategies, you’ll practice shifting from anticipatory anxiety into a steadier, more regulated state—without increasing interoceptive focus or fueling symptom-checking.Through gentle breathwork, external orientation, and cognitive reframing, this meditation helps you ride the wave of dosing-related anxiety with clarity and confidence. Reinforcing your goals and progress increases safety and reduces hypervigilance.Listen during dosing to help your nervous system settle, reduce reactivity, and reconnect with the purpose behind your treatment: building tolerance, expanding safety, and reclaiming freedom.Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailThis gentle, imaginative meditation helps kids feel calmer and more confident during oral immunotherapy (OIT), Tolerance Induction Program (TIP), or sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) allergy dosing. Together with their trusted adult, children visualize their dose as a tiny seed planted in an imaginary garden, growing stronger over time. Through slow breathing, grounding, and playful imagery, this practice helps settle the nervous system while focusing on pleasant sensations, and shifting focus away from the often anxiety-provoking and unpleasant taste and texture of the dose.Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailThe Food Allergy Nursing Association (FANA) is celebrating one year of transforming the landscape of food allergy care. In this special anniversary episode, I’m joined by FANA’s president Dr. Olga Kagan, and secretary Sarah Pederson to talk about their mission to elevate nursing education, improve patient care, and establish certified allergy nurse educators.Together, we discuss how FANA is working to integrate food allergy education into nursing training programs and what this could mean for families and patients in the years ahead. This conversation is a heartfelt look at how nurses make a difference every single day and how their compassion and clinical expertise shape the food allergy community.Join us as we celebrate their one-year anniversary and look toward the future of allergy care. You can also attend FANA’s free online celebration event on December 9. Tickets are available at foodallergynursing.orghttps://www.allergicliving.com/2022/04/04/why-we-need-certified-allergy-nurse-educators/.Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailFeel anxious about food allergies? This 10-minute guided meditation helps teens and adults gently observe anxious “what-if” thoughts without being overwhelmed by them.Using a calming sky and drifting clouds visualization, you’ll learn to notice your worries, label them, and watch them float away, without pushing or holding onto them. This meditation teaches that you are not your thoughts and provides a science-based approach to anxiety management. Perfect for anyone living with food allergies or dealing with anxious thoughts, this practice helps you: Observe anxious thoughts with curiosity instead of fear. Practice non-resistance and gentle self-awareness. Calm the nervous system through guided breath and imagery. Build a sense of emotional clarity and inner space.Return to this meditation whenever worries arise, and watch your thoughts drift by like clouds in the sky.Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailThis playful 5-minute, science-based meditation helps kids (and their grown-ups!) understand how their brains work, and that not every thought is true.Children learn that just like hearts beat and eyes blink, brains think thoughts: some helpful, some worried, and some downright silly! Together, you’ll explore why anxious thoughts happen (your brain’s way of trying to protect you) and discover how to shift out of worry by using imagination and laughter.Through guided questions and creativity, you’ll imagine the silliest animals, outfits, movements, and voices, helping your brain feel lighter, calmer, and more flexible. This practice builds emotional awareness, resilience, and connection by getting you giggling together!Perfect for ages 2–10. Listen with a parent or caregiver and have fun being silly together!Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailThis gentle 5-minute guided meditation helps children with food allergies calm their worries and feel safe in their bodies and their world. Together with a trusted adult, kids will imagine creating a special “bubble of safety” around themselves that travels with them wherever they go.Through simple breathing, imagination, and connection, children learn how to notice their worried “what-if” thoughts and gently blow them back out of their bubble. They’ll practice grounding, body awareness, and self-regulation skills that support both emotional and physical safety.This meditation is perfect for bedtime, school mornings, or anytime anxiety feels big. Listen together, breathe, and build your bubble of safety.Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn Part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Michael Pistiner, pediatric allergist at Mass General for Children, we focus on anaphylaxis management in young children and epinephrine use.Dr. Pistiner walks us through which epinephrine devices are appropriate for infants and toddlers, and demonstrates the best techniques for administering them safely. He shares practical guidance for holding a squirming baby, minimizing fear, and building confidence in epinephrine.-->We encourage you to watch what this looks like in action. You can find the video demonstration on my Instagram and Facebook pages @thefoodallergypsychologist or here:*Infant epi administration: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BrzXaONN9yQy6KgMAn4LXNSh8jJ8rpS7/view?usp=sharing*-->Toddler epi administration: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1J0EIzwE7zAV3vwzLQQ3EvstBM2SgtEvR/view?usp=sharingThis episode is a must-listen for anyone caring for a child with food allergies, because preparation and confidence can make all the difference in an emergency.How to Use an Epi Autoinjector:https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/injuries-emergencies/Pages/How-to-Use-an-Epinephrine-Auto-Injector.aspxParental experience administering epinephrine for systemic reactions during infant and toddler oral food challenges: https://www.jaci-inpractice.org/article/S2213-2198(24)00687-1/fulltextJoint Task Force Practice Parameters:https://www.allergyparameters.org/Food Allergy Management and PreventionSupport Tool for Infants and Toddlers:https://famp-it.org/Creating an Allergy and Anaphylaxis Plan:https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/allergies-asthma/Pages/Create-an-Allergy-and-Anaphylaxis-Emergency-Plan.aspx?sfns=moAAP Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan:https://publications.aap.org/pediatriccare/resources/17512/AAP-Allergy-and-Anaphylaxis-Emergency-Plan?autologincheck=redirectedSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this first of a two-part conversation, I’m joined by Dr. Michael Pistiner, pediatric allergist and Director of Food Allergy Advocacy, Education, and Prevention at Mass General for Children, Harvard Medical School.Dr. Pistiner discusses his work on developing the newly updated criteria for recognizing anaphylaxis in infants and toddlers, breaking down medical terminology into clear, everyday language parents can understand. He explains how reactions can progress from early to advanced anaphylaxis, the importance of giving epinephrine early, and how to recognize the signs even when they don’t look the way we might expect.Dr. Pistiner has a gift for translating complex medical concepts into practical visuals that help parents see what’s happening, both in their child’s body and in their own decision-making process.If you’ve ever worried about missing the signs or hesitated to give epinephrine, this conversation will give you the clarity and confidence to act when it matters most.Food Allergy Management and PreventionSupport Tool for Infants and Toddlers:https://famp-it.org/Creating an Allergy and Anaphylaxis Plan:https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/allergies-asthma/Pages/Create-an-Allergy-and-Anaphylaxis-Emergency-Plan.aspx?sfns=moAAP Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan:https://publications.aap.org/pediatriccare/resources/17512/AAP-Allergy-and-Anaphylaxis-Emergency-Plan?autologincheck=redirectedParental experience administering epinephrine for systemic reactions during infant and toddler oral food challenges: https://www.jaci-inpractice.org/article/S2213-2198(24)00687-1/fulltextDevelopment and Evaluation of Modified Criteria for Infant and Toddler Anaphylaxis:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38777125/How to Use an Epinephrine Auto Injector:https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/injuries-emergencies/Pages/How-to-Use-an-Epinephrine-Auto-Injector.aspxMass General Food Allergy Buddies Program:https://www.massgeneral.org/children/food-allergies/food-allergy-communitySpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this special holiday episode, I welcome Megan Lavin, the creator behind Allergy Awesomeness. She is a trusted voice in the food allergy community, allergy mom of four, and now a morning TV anchor. Together, we explore what it means to create a happy and connected (not perfect) holiday for our families.We also discuss Megan’s recent experience with a brand partnership, how she approached it with honesty, and her take on what it means for us to be positive members of the food allergy community.This episode is a reminder that clarity and  can transform the way we approach food, family, and advocacy.Listen now for heartfelt conversation, practical insights, and permission to make this season your own.Follow Megan at https://allergyawesomeness.com/ and on social media @allergy_awesomenessMegan's top 3 holiday recipes:https://allergyawesomeness.com/allergy-friendly-sugar-cookies/https://allergyawesomeness.com/dairy-free-fudge/https://allergyawesomeness.com/dairy-free-caramels/Cookbook:https://www.amazon.com/Allergy-Moms-Lifesaving-Instant-Cookbook/dp/1624147607Megan's adorable Tootsie Roll ad:https://youtube.com/shorts/ox0UqOOOYSo?si=6fJ2NYXzk3Uk-SBaSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this deeply personal Thanksgiving episode, I reflect on the ways that grief and gratitude are intertwined.This episode is dedicated to my brother Adam on his birthday. Acknowledging Worldwide Bereaved Siblings Month, I share how his death reshaped what gratitude means to me.Join me to explore how we create meaning after trauma, how you're doing gratitude wrong, and ways to utilize it for better health and happiness.This episode is an invitation to reflect, not a prescription for how to feel. It’s a compassionate look at how healing, gratitude, and meaning-making can coexist, even when life doesn’t look the way we imagined.Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailThis inspiring episode features Devin August Sailer, teen allergy advocate and founder of Safe to Eat, an organization providing Top 9 and gluten free foods to domestic violence and emergency housing shelters in upstate New York. We talk about what it's like navigating the world with food allergies as a young person, how Safe to Eat was created, and how even the smallest acts of advocacy are important. Trigger warning: Devin shares a story about a severe allergic reaction. He talks about how infusing his unique sense of humor into these experiences is a part of how he has come to accept them as his reality, while learning from them to prevent future reactions.This is a great episode to share with teens managing allergies.Support Devin's work at https://www.safetoeatnow.com/Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I am joined by Zoë Slaughter, the influencer behind the Invisibly Allergic blog and social media accounts and author of the upcoming book by the same name. Zoë shares candidly about her airborne and contact reactivity, her experience using the new nasal epinephrine Neffy, and how she has navigated a safe work place. We also talk about what it means to advocate for change in a world where food allergies are still misunderstood, and how storytelling can open doors for awareness, empathy, and progress.https://invisiblyallergic.com/https://www.fda.gov/safety/medical-product-safety-information/medwatch-forms-fda-safety-reportingSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailFood allergies don’t just bring the fear of anaphylaxis. They also bring unique social challenges that are often overlooked. In this episode, I sit down with psychologist clinician and researcher Dr. Melissa Engel, whose recently published paper introduces a new model for understanding social anxiety related to food allergies.We discuss why this distinction matters, especially for adolescents navigating peer relationships, independence, and identity alongside food allergies. Dr. Engel shares her hopes that this framework will inspire better screening, more targeted treatments, and a broader acknowledgment of the emotional toll that living with food allergies can take.If you’ve ever felt that the mental health aspects of food allergies aren’t fully recognized, this conversation will validate your experience and point toward a future where research and care finally catch up to what families and patients already know.Read Dr. Engel's paper here:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12400901/Center for Food Allergy And Asthma Research (CFAAR):https://www.feinberg.northwestern.edu/sites/cfaar/index.htmlEpisode 32 with Dr. Katherine Dahlsgaard mentioned in our discussion:https://dontfeedthefear.buzzsprout.com/2371319/episodes/17506930-building-bravery-tackling-allergy-anxiety-with-dr-katherine-dahlsgaardSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Don’t Feed the Fear, Emery Brown, school psychologist and FAACT’s Behavioral Health Director, joins me to talk about how parents and schools can better support children with food allergies. We explore practical strategies that help children and their parents feel safe, understood, and able to thrive. This episode is packed with helpful tips from Emery's real-life personal and professional experiences, practical skills you can use right away, as well as ideas on how to use the many resources she has created for FAACT's Behavioral Health Resource Center. Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Connection Team | FAACTBehavioral Health Resource Center | FAACTCamp TAG | FAACTSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Don’t Feed the Fear, the family behind the ADINA Act joins me to talk about the federal bill's recently reintroduction to Congress. The Act seeks to require clear labeling of the Top 9 food allergens and gluten in prescription and over-the-counter medications. It's a critical step toward safety and transparency for people living with food allergies and celiac disease.We explore the story behind the bill, the urgent need for allergen labeling in medications, and how families, advocates, and clinicians can come together to push for this change.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why allergen labeling in medications matters for millions of familiesCommon challenges faced by patients and providers without clear labelingHow the Adina Act could change the future of allergy care and safetyPractical ways you can support this legislation right nowADINA Act – A federal bill, requiring plain language labeling, for all top food allergens and gluten containing grains in medication.Instagram: @the_adina_act_effortFacebook: The ADINA ActFind Your Representative | house.govU.S. Senate: Contacting U.S. SenatorsSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Don’t Feed the Fear, Gabby Hemond (@noglutengabby) joins us to talk about being a young celiac influencer diagnosed during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. We talk about the unique challenges of navigating a new diagnosis in young adulthood during the global shutdown, the insecurities and uncertainties that came with it, and coping through connecting with others. Gabby shares how she began posting online, the ups and downs of sharing her life so publicly, and continuing to build community for people living with celiac. Follow Gabby @noglutengabbyHear Gabby speak at the FAACT Summit 10/3-5/25: FAACT Allergy SummitCeliac and kissing study: Smooching Safely: New Study Finds Kissing After Gluten is (Mostly) OK for People with Celiac Disease | Celiac Disease FoundationSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailThis week on Don’t Feed the Fear, I’m joined by Kendra Williams, who lives with celiac disease and has a gluten detection dog Suki trained to keep her safe. In this conversation, we talk about when a food allergy detection dog is a good fit, the role Suki plays in daily life, and how this unique partnership has reduced anxiety and increased her confidence in navigating a gluten-filled world. We also dive into the importance of finding community—both online and in-person—for support and encouragement. Follow Kendra and Suki @sukipwdHOME | Celiac Service DogsSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailKayla King (@celiacwithkayla) joins us on Don't Feed the Fear this week for an open and candid conversation about the realities of living with celiac disease. Kayla is a young celiac influencer who speaks candidly about her experiences growing up with celiac disease. Together, we explore the challenges and triumphs of dating, traveling, and developing self-confidence while managing a chronic condition. She also opens up about her journey with binge eating disorder and the connection between celiac and mental health.This conversation is full of honesty, courage, and resilience — and I’m deeply grateful for Kayla’s willingness to share her story so openly. Whether you’re a parent, a young adult with celiac, or someone who wants to better understand the emotional side of living gluten-free, this episode offers valuable insight and hope.Trigger warning: This conversation may be a difficult listen for those whose lives have been impacted by eating disorders.Follow Kayla @celiacwithkaylaFAACT Allergy SummitGluten-Free Expos & Events - Wicked Gluten FreeSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailThis episode of Don’t Feed the Fear opens our month-long focus on celiac disease with a powerful conversation featuring father and son advocates Jon and Jax Bari. Together, they share their personal experiences with celiac and the urgent need for systemic change—from increased research funding to clearer gluten labeling.We discuss how advocacy at the family level can create ripples of awareness in schools, communities, and even at the national policy level. Jon and Jax’s story highlights both the daily challenges of living with celiac and the hope that comes from pushing for a safer, more informed future.For anyone living with or caring for someone with celiac, this episode will leave you informed and inspired to get involved.Celiac Journey - Celiac Disease Advocacy & EducationSocial Media: @celiacjourney and @glutenfinds_paCeliac Awareness Night at the Phillies game against the Kansas City Royals on 9/12/25:https://mlb.tickets.com/schedule/?agency=MLB_MPV&orgid=21#/sales_group_code;salesGroupId=8314ADINA Act – A federal bill, requiring plain language labeling, for all top food allergens and gluten containing grains in medication.Gluten-Free Expos & Events - Wicked Gluten FreeSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailHeading back to school can feel stressful for families managing food allergies. Last year, new recommendations for food allergy management in schools were released, offering schools a roadmap for keeping students safe and included. In this episode, I’m joined by Christine Creter to break down what they mean, how they can be applied, and how parents can utilize them to support their child’s safety and success at school. We hope that as your school year is getting started, this episode will give you practical takeaways to help you breathe a little easier this school year. FAMS Recommendations: FAMS_ExpertRecs_English_9.18_Final.pdfEffective Employee Engagement Programs With Creter GroupSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this heartfelt and honest conversation, I sit down with Lyndsie Iiams, a fellow homeschooling food allergy mom and social media creator, to talk about how our journeys led us to educate our children at home. Neither of us ever expected to homeschool, but food allergies reshaped how we viewed our children’s safety, learning environment, and emotional well-being.We discuss the myths about homeschooling, the challenges, the unexpected joys we’ve discovered, and why our decisions were not driven solely by fear. We share our deep respect for teachers and the incredible work they do, while acknowledging that for our families, this path has been a better fit for our families.Whether you’re a food allergy parent curious about homeschooling, a professional supporting these families, or simply someone interested in alternative education, this episode offers perspective, encouragement, and practical considerations for making informed choices.Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]

Send us Fan MailWith only 14 foods she can eat safely, Jenna Gestetner could have built a life defined by restriction. Instead, she’s chosen to create one rich in joy, connection, and possibility. Living with MCAS, POTS, and multiple food allergies, she shares how she’s learned to honor her body’s needs without letting her diagnosis dictate her happiness. In this episode, Jenna shares how she navigates the mental health aspects of her medical needs, and why she focuses on what she can do rather than what’s off-limits. Her story is a bright reminder that thriving is possible and has little to do with how much is on the menu.Find Jenna on all social media platforms @jennaxhealthAbout me | Jenna x HealthSpecial thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!www.kyledine.comFind Dr. Whitehouse:-thefoodallergypsychologist.com-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety [email protected]