#114 - Managing Food Allergies in Teenagers (Ages 12–18)

Independence, risk-taking, and peer pressure. Welcome to the teenage years with food allergies!

Managing food allergies during the teen years poses new challenges. Tweens and teens are gaining independence, navigating social pressures, and taking more responsibility for their health. But this is also the stage where risky behavior peaks, and the risk for severe allergic reactions is highest. That’s why clear communication and trust matter more than ever.

In this episode of our Food Allergy Stages Series, Dr. Travis Miller joins Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta to unpack how food allergy management changes from ages 12 to 18. We talk about empowering teens through shared decision-making, building trust between parents and teens, and developing essential life skills like label reading, restaurant communication, and self-advocacy. We also dive into difficult topics like bullying, alcohol, and mental health. Finally, we address why emotional support is just as important as carrying an epinephrine auto-injector.

What we cover in our episode about managing food allergies in teens:

• Why trust matters. Teens are more likely to follow allergy routines when they feel heard and involved.
• Empowering independence. From grocery shopping to reading labels, this is the age to start turning over the reins.
• Talking about risky behavior. Alcohol and dating can put teens with food allergies at higher risk.
• Bullying and boundaries. Learn how to spot signs of bullying and who can help your teen feel safe and supported.
• Mental health and identity. Food allergies can affect confidence. We share ways to support emotional wellness and self-esteem.

Episode 5 in our “Food Allergies: Ages & Stages” series 

Across six episodes, we explore how food allergies show up and shift through different phases of life, from introducing solids in infancy to navigating school and adapting in adulthood. We’re here with evidence-based info, expert insights, and lived experience to guide you through it all.

• Episode 110: Early Allergen Introduction
• Episode 111: Food Allergy Basics for Newly Diagnosed Families
• Episode 112: Managing Food Allergies in Babies and Toddlers
• Episode 113: Managing Food Allergies in School-Age Children

Thanks to Genentech and Aquestive for sponsoring this episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.