Food allergy research is constantly evolving, but what do these studies actually mean for families making treatment decisions?

In this episode of Don't Feed the Fear, I welcome Dr. Lianne Soller Allergy Research Manager at BC Children's Hospital in Canada to help us make sense of the evidence behind food allergy immunotherapy and where the field is headed. Together, we explore some of Dr. Soller and her team's most important research findings, including what we've learned about treatment outcomes, quality of life, safety, and factors that may influence success.

Rather than focusing on headlines or individual studies in isolation, this conversation highlights why becoming curious about food allergy research can help families feel more informed and confident as they navigate treatment decisions. Dr. Soller also shares insights into how research questions are developed, why evidence continues to evolve, and how families can thoughtfully interpret new findings without becoming overwhelmed.

Research helps us ask better questions, but every family's decision is still deeply personal. My hope is that this conversation helps you see the value of research-informed decisions.

Canadian Food Allergy Immunotherapy Foundation (FAIT): https://www.bcchildrens.ca/clinics-services/allergy

BC Children's Hospital Allergy:
https://www.canadianfaitfoundation.org/

My new book From Fear to Freedom:
https://a.co/d/0f41FxsM

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Every family approaches food allergy treatment differently, and that's exactly as it should be.

In this episode, psychologist and food allergy mom I sit down with Ina Chung, creator of @TheAsianAllergyMom to discuss one of the most overlooked aspects of treatment decisions: giving yourself permission to choose the path that aligns with your family's goals, values, and season of life.

Together we discuss:

•  Why more treatment options can sometimes create more pressure 
•  Raising confident, thoughtful children with food allergies 
•  Helping kids become part of the decision-making process 
•  The importance of knowing your family's goals before choosing a treatment 
•  Why "not right now" can be a thoughtful decision 
•  Building confidence instead of comparison 

You can follow Ina on Instagram @theasianallergymom
The Asian Allergy Mom

My new book, From Fear to Freedom: A Workbook for Navigating Allergy Immunotherapy is available here: https://a.co/d/051hmpku

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In this episode, UK allergist Prof. Adam Fox joins us to explore the emotional and psychosocial layers of oral immunotherapy.

Dr. Fox shares how he approaches difficult conversations with honesty and compassion, including addressing guilt about management decisions and understanding risk and side effects during treatment.  Dr. Fox gives us important insights and emotional validation regarding the connection between stress and allergic reactions, including how the brain, gut, and immune system interact during treatment.

This conversation expands the discussion beyond protocols and data and into the lived emotional experience of navigating food allergy treatment.

Episode Links:
-Follow Prof. Adam Fox @dradamfox and @london_allergy
-https://www.allergylondon.com/team/professor-adam-fox/
-LEAP Study: https://www.leapstudy.co.uk/index.html
-Mindset in Food Allergy paper: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41070771/

From Fear to Freedom: A Workbook for Navigating Allergy Immunotherapy
https://a.co/d/003saZ8p

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Beneath our wishes, we often discover important clues about our values, needs, fears, hopes, griefs, and the parts of ourselves that may not receive enough attention in everyday life.

When was the last time you used your imagination, not to solve a problem or make a plan, but to better understand yourself?

This guided Magic Wand Exercise invites you to set aside what is practical, realistic, or possible for a moment and explore a simple question:
If you had a magic wand, what would you change?

This guided reflection is designed to help you:
• increase self-awareness
• identify underlying needs and values
• explore emotions with curiosity and compassion
• gain insight into challenges or decisions you may be facing
• reconnect with creativity and imagination

Many of us spend so much time focusing on what we think we should want or what we believe is possible that we rarely pause to explore what matters most. This exercise creates space to listen more closely to your own experience.

Whether you are navigating a life transition, making an important decision, processing a challenge, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, I hope this exercise offers insight, clarity, and self-compassion.

No special experience is needed, just curiosity, imagination, and a willingness to explore.

While this exercise appears in my workbook From Fear to Freedom about the social/emotional aspects of food allergy treatment decisions, it is not specific to food allergies and can be used by anyone navigating challenges, changes, or difficult feelings.

You can find the workbook this exercise is from here:
From Fear to Freedom: A Workbook for Navigating Allergy Immunotherapy
https://a.co/d/003saZ8p

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

What would your child change if they had a magic wand?

What would they wish for?

What would they want the adults in their life to understand?

The Magic Wand Exercise is one of my favorite tools for helping children express thoughts, feelings, worries, hopes, and needs that can sometimes be difficult to put into words directly. This gentle, guided exercise invites children to use their imaginations to explore a wish, giving adults valuable information about their needs and emotions.

Consider it a magic trick grown-ups can use to connect with a child who feels unheard, misunderstood, or distant. Parents, caregivers, and professionals may also find this a valuable way to better understand a child's perspective and create opportunities for meaningful connection.

While this exercise appears in my workbook From Fear to Freedom about the social/emotional aspects of food allergy treatment decisions, it is not specific to food allergies and can be used by any child navigating challenges, changes, or big feelings.

Adults are encouraged to listen and engage with the child with curiosity rather than a desire to fix or solve. Sometimes the greatest gift we can offer a child is the experience of being seen, heard, and understood.

This guided exercise is suitable for children, families, therapists, educators, and anyone supporting a young person.

You can find the workbook this exercise is from here:
From Fear to Freedom: A Workbook for Navigating Allergy Immunotherapy
https://a.co/d/003saZ8p

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This month, the tables are turned.

In this special episode, psychologist, food allergy mom, and friend Dr. Elizabeth Hawkins joins the podcast as guest host to interview me about my new book, From Fear to Freedom: A Workbook for Navigating Allergy Immunotherapy.

We discuss the personal and professional experiences that inspired the book, the challenges families face when considering treatment options, and why food allergy treatment decisions are about so much more than medicine alone.

Our conversation explores the role of anxiety, uncertainty, values, family dynamics, and nervous system responses in treatment decision-making. We also discuss common misconceptions about food allergy treatments, what families often struggle with most, and why there is no single "right" path for every patient.

This episode offers an honest look at the questions, fears, hopes, and possibilities that shaped both the book and the conversations it hopes to support.

Available now:
Amazon: https://a.co/d/06s0n6ac

Bookshop.org (supports independent bookstores): https://bookshop.org/p/books/from-fear-to-freedom-a-workbook-for-navigating-allergy-immunotherapy-amanda-r-desio-whitehouse/7138d4f2d8127c9b?ean=9798995147404&next=t

Dr. Hawkins' Food Allergy Hive community:
https://www.fahive.com/about

Episode 70 (My family's treatment journey story:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2371319/episodes/18972752

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

We covered what OIT is last week.

This week? We’re talking about what it’s not.

Dr. Tom Chacko joins me to bust common myths about oral immunotherapy and answer the questions families ask in his clinic and on social media every day.

Dr. Chacko gives us his honest and direct perspective on:

-When not pursuing OIT could be a missed opportunity or even a disservice to a patient
-How other treatment options compare to OIT 
-Why we should be mindful of where messages come from and who benefits

If allergy treatment options feel overwhelming right now, this episode will help you sort through the noise.

Episode links:
https://atlantaallergydoctor.com/
Instagram: @chacko_allergy
fastoit.org

Find my workbook From Fear To Freedom: A Guide to Navigating Allergy Immunotherapy here: https://a.co/d/068tbMjP

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In this episode, we begin a deep dive into specific food allergy immunotherapy treatments with a conversation about (OIT).

Dr. Doug Jones, one of the early pioneers of OIT in the United States, joins us to discuss how it looks in real clinical practice, and how to think about risk, predictability, and control in food allergy management.

As treatment options expand, patients and clinicians alike are navigating increased complexity. This conversation offers a grounded, evidence-based framework for thinking through OIT and shared decision-making. Dr. Jones acknowledges the psychological impact of allergy trauma and management, and helps us to understand the difference between accidental exposure risk and structured treatment risk

This episode is for anyone feeling overwhelmed by treatment decisions and wanting a clearer framework for thinking about OIT.

Episode Links:
-Follow Dr. Doug Jones
Instagram: @drdougjones
drdougjones.com
-fastoit.org

You can find my workbook From Fear To Freedom: A Guide to Navigating Allergy Immunotherapy here: https://a.co/d/003saZ8p

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In this solo episode, I’m wrapping up an incredibly meaningful awareness month by taking you behind the scenes of the advocacy events, conferences, legislation, research, and community moments that left me feeling hopeful about the future of food allergies and chronic illness care.

From the Food Allergy Fund Summit in New York City, to advocacy days in Washington DC and Albany, this episode explores the intersection of mental health, medical advocacy, innovation, storytelling, and policy change across the food allergy, celiac, asthma, eosinophilic disease, and alpha-gal communities.

I also share personal reflections from traveling with loved ones, bringing my son to advocacy events, and witnessing children and teens become the next generation of leaders in this space, as well as the challenging emotions of acknowledging the tragic losses our advocacy honors.

This episode is both a recap and a reminder:
 progress is happening because people continue to care, speak up, and advocate together.

Please follow and support the families and organizations below mentioned in this episode that are creating the changes we need:
https://www.elijahalavifoundation.org/
https://www.loveforgiovanni.org/
https://www.adinaact.com/
https://aafa.org/
https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/
https://www.addietellsall.com/
https://maycontainfilms.org/
https://allergyadvocatesny.org/
https://foodallergyfund.org/

And off-topic but a highlight of my month:
https://forward-space.com/

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This week on the podcast, I’m joined by filmmaker and advocate Mandi Kearns of Just Like You Films to discuss the upcoming food allergy docudrama, May Contain: My Life.

This conversation explores not only the making of the film, but the emotional realities behind it: parenting through food allergies, navigating fear and resilience, sibling experiences, emergency situations, advocacy, and the ways these experiences continue to live in our nervous systems long after reactions are over.

One of the things I appreciated most about this film is that it does not portray individuals with food allergies as fragile or broken. Instead, it honestly captures the complexity of living with food allergies while still centering resilience, identity, connection, humor, and humanity.

This is an incredibly meaningful conversation for food allergy parents, adult patients, providers, advocates, and anyone wanting to better understand the lived experience of this community.

Learn more:

• Just Like You Films: https://justlikeyoufilms.org
• Film information and screenings: https://justlikeyoufilms.org
• JLY Films' Walk Beside You Promise: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h0UUxOzL84U
• AMC Showtimes: https://www.amctheatres.com/

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In this special Allergy & Asthma Awareness Month episode, psychologist and food allergy advocate Dr. Amanda Whitehouse 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

FPIES (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 at
fpies.org
@ifpies

FPIES Action Plan: https://fpies.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/all-ages-FPIES-ACTION-PLAN.pdf
Loni'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.pdf

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Environmental 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=t

Follow 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/connect

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

My 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 why
• How allergists assess readiness for immunotherapy
• The common “bumps in the road” during treatment
• What happens once maintenance is reached
• And 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/16808272

Follow 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/connect

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

We 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-050224-121037

Follow 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/connect

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This 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 surprises

I’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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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 matter
• Needle fears and other real-world barriers to carrying epinephrine
• Human factor studies and ease of use in high-stress situations
• What “investigational” means and where the product stands in development

This 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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.com
• Dr. Hernandez-Trujillo: https://www.sflallergy.com/about-us
• Previous episodes with Dr. Pistiner:
  • New Criteria for Infant and Toddler Anaphylaxis:
    https://dontfeedthefear.buzzsprout.com/2371319/episodes/18014268
  • Safe Epi Use for Infants and Toddlers:
    https://dontfeedthefear.buzzsprout.com/2371319/episodes/18209067

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Many 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Living 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 decisions

This 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 signals

No 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Of 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 awareness

If 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Lisa 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Food 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-handouts

https://www.aaaai.org/Aaaai/media/Media-Library-PDFs/Allergist%20Resources/Statements%20and%20Practice%20Parameters/Addressing-Health-Disparities-in-Food-Allergy-position-statement-Jan-2025.pdf

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Living 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

What 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 families
• Why awareness alone isn’t enough without structural change
• The emotional toll of navigating systems that don’t reliably protect children with food allergies

This 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:
@AllergyStrong
allergystrong.com

Erin'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:
@nonuttraveler
nonuttraveler.com

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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/
@blackallergymama

Also 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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.com
NPHTI.org
comfortkitsforchildren.org

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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=t

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

When 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Self-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 activation
• Why our nervous systems resist self-care
• How self-care functions as nervous system regulation, not indulgence

This 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This 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 @garysoffermd

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

As 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 @garysoffermd

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This 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 process
• What life looks like day-to-day with a working allergy dog
• How a detection dog supports emotional well-being as much as physical safety

Whether 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/
@detectiveharleyfadd

Harley's trainer: @noseydogdetection

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Food 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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/
@theitchpodcast

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

The 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.org

https://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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Feel 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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=sharing

This 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.aspx

Parental experience administering epinephrine for systemic reactions during infant and toddler oral food challenges: https://www.jaci-inpractice.org/article/S2213-2198(24)00687-1/fulltext

Joint Task Force Practice Parameters:
https://www.allergyparameters.org/

Food Allergy Management and Prevention
Support 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=mo

AAP Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan:
https://publications.aap.org/pediatriccare/resources/17512/AAP-Allergy-and-Anaphylaxis-Emergency-Plan?autologincheck=redirected

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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 Prevention
Support 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=mo

AAP Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan:
https://publications.aap.org/pediatriccare/resources/17512/AAP-Allergy-and-Anaphylaxis-Emergency-Plan?autologincheck=redirected

Parental experience administering epinephrine for systemic reactions during infant and toddler oral food challenges: https://www.jaci-inpractice.org/article/S2213-2198(24)00687-1/fulltext

Development 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.aspx

Mass General Food Allergy Buddies Program:
https://www.massgeneral.org/children/food-allergies/food-allergy-community

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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_awesomeness

Megan'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/1624147607

Megan's adorable Tootsie Roll ad:
https://youtube.com/shorts/ox0UqOOOYSo?si=6fJ2NYXzk3Uk-SBa

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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-reporting

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Food 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.html

Episode 32 with Dr. Katherine Dahlsgaard mentioned in our discussion:
https://dontfeedthefear.buzzsprout.com/2371319/episodes/17506930-building-bravery-tackling-allergy-anxiety-with-dr-katherine-dahlsgaard

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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 | FAACT
Behavioral Health Resource Center | FAACT
Camp TAG | FAACT

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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 families
• Common challenges faced by patients and providers without clear labeling
• How the Adina Act could change the future of allergy care and safety
• Practical ways you can support this legislation right now

ADINA Act – A federal bill, requiring plain language labeling, for all top food allergens and gluten containing grains in medication.

Instagram: @the_adina_act_effort
Facebook: The ADINA Act

Find Your Representative | house.gov
U.S. Senate: Contacting U.S. Senators

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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 @noglutengabby
Hear Gabby speak at the FAACT Summit 10/3-5/25:
FAACT Allergy Summit

Celiac and kissing study: Smooching Safely: New Study Finds Kissing After Gluten is (Mostly) OK for People with Celiac Disease | Celiac Disease Foundation

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This 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 @sukipwd
HOME | Celiac Service Dogs

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Kayla 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 @celiacwithkayla

FAACT Allergy Summit

Gluten-Free Expos & Events - Wicked Gluten Free

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This 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 & Education
Social Media: @celiacjourney and @glutenfinds_pa

Celiac 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=8314


ADINA 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 Free

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Heading 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.pdf

Effective Employee Engagement Programs With Creter Group

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In 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.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

With 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 @jennaxhealth
About me | Jenna x Health

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Meenal Lele is the founder and CEO of Hanimune Therapeutics, which she founded with the aim of developing food allergy preventative products. The company's goal is to create solutions for parents preventing food allergies and doctors seeking better options to support tolerance. The company's commercial branch Lil' Mixins provides products making early allergen introduction to infants in a safe and controlled manner. 

In our conversation we explore her groundbreaking innovations in creating "non-allergenic" peanuts and other top allergens and the vital connection between the gut microbiome, allergy development, and mental health. We also explore how anxiety plays a role in allergy management and treatment, and her perspective on how reducing anxiety around this might benefit patients.

Lele's book The Baby and the Biome is a great resource for anyone interested in prevention and microbiome health.
The Baby and the Biome a book by Meenal Lele and Cezmi Akdis - Bookshop.org US

Resource Hub – Lil Mixins
Hanimune Therapeutics

Preventing Food Allergies in Infants Guide by foodallergyprevention.org and FARE: Clinician-Guide_FAPrev_2.24.pdf

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In this episode, Dr. Whitehouse is joined by an inspiring young adult living with multiple food allergies, Mia Silverman. Mia shares her journey of navigating the world with confidence, resilience, and clarity. Together, they discuss what it really looks like to say “yes” to life, while still taking precautions and honoring the realities of her medical needs.

From dealing with bullying to building meaningful friendships and dating with food allergies, to tackling food challenges and managing the emotional ups and downs along the way, this episode is packed with practical insights and deep validation for anyone growing up allergic or raising someone who is.

Mia shares her favorite tools, perspectives, and voices in the allergy advocacy space, leaving listeners with both encouragement and resources they can turn to.

Allergies With Mia
@allergieswithmia

Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Connection Team | FAACT
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America | AAFA | Home
FARE Teen Advisory Group - FoodAllergy.org 

CA Restaurant menu labeling bill (SB 68) addie tells all | food allergy

Dr. Zachary Rubin @rubin_allergy
Dr. Ruchi Gupta @drruchigupta_
Dr. Payel Gupta @nycdoctor (Co-host @theitchpodcast)

Miss Allergic Reactor - The No.1 Resource for Travelers with Food Allergies to Safely Navigate The World (@miss_allergic_reactor)
Food Allergy Cards | Translation Cards in 52 Languages – Equal Eats
Top 9 Allergen-Free Meat Sticks & Snacks | Lorissa's Kitchen
Abe's Muffins
Welcome to MadeGood - United States – MadeGoodFoods-USA

SPOKIN food allergy app

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In this special birthday episode of Don’t Feed the Fear, I’m pausing to reflect on a whirlwind year, both personally and professionally. I answer some of the questions I get most often, including what inspired the name of the podcast, what I’ve learned through a year of growth, grief, and gratitude, and how nervous system work continues to shape everything from allergy management to parenting to healing. 

As we continue to discuss the choices that we do have in managing allergies well, I share how I use the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) with my own family and clients to help regulate the nervous system after chronic stress and trauma, and an invitation to join me for a group experience this fall. Plus, I open up about what’s next for the show, and why even the good things in life require rest, recalibration, and intentional nervous system care.

Thank you to all the amazing guests who joined me this year to get the podcast off to such a great start! I loved meeting each of you, learned so much from you, and look forward to staying in touch!

You can follow me on Instagram @thefoodallergypsychologist

For info about my upcoming groups or any other aspect of my work, check out my website www.thefoodallergypsychologist.com
and contact me/sign up for my email list here:
Connect — Amanda Whitehouse Phd

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In this week's chat about choices, psychologist/researcher Dr. Katharine Dahlsgaard and your host Dr. Whitehouse explore what we can do about the emotional side of food allergies, exploring when everyday anxiety crosses the line into specific phobia and how to address it. Dr. Dahlsgaard walks us through her research demonstrating that exposure therapy, including the proximity challenges, like smelling or being close to an allergen, to help recalibrate fear responses.

We discuss balancing safety with bravery through the healing lens of being “safe enough,” address the overlap of food allergies with Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), and unpack the essential life skill of functioning even while anxious.

-Dr. Katherine Dahlsgaard | Psychologist | CBT Therapist
-Instagram: @braveisbetter
-Scale of Food Allergy Anxiety (SOFAA) | Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
-Want to help your patients with food allergy anxiety? Do proximity challenges!
-Cognitive-behavioral intervention for anxiety associated with food allergy in a clinical sample of children: Feasibility, acceptability, and proof-of-concept in children - ScienceDirect
-Episode 4 with Kelly Chambers, discussing her experiences as a Food Allergy Bravery parent: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2371319/episodes/15580765 

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In this episode, host Dr. Whitehouse welcomes dietitian-author Lucy Upton @childrensdietitian to explore developing healthy relationships with food. Topics discussed include:

• Nervous system–informed eating strategies
• Safe and science-backed early allergen introduction
• The gut-brain-axis, vagus nerve, and mental health connection 
• Medicalization of food and how to combat it
• Lucy's "3 Fs" for encouraging balanced eating habits in children

Whether you're already navigating food allergies, trying to prevent them for your little ones, or simply aim to feed your family with more calm and confidence, this encouraging conversation offers science-based guidance and practical tools.

---
 Where to find Lucy:
 On Instagram and TikTok @childrensdietitian
 Experts on infant & child feeding & nutrition | The Children’s Dietitian
The Ultimate Guide to Children's Nutrition a book by Lucy Upton - Bookshop.org US

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In this World Allergy Week episode, I'm joined by Ilana Golant, Founder and CEO of the Food Allergy Fund. She exposes the significant gap between the prevalence of food allergies and the amount of research dollars devoted to this. Ilana shares how the FAF is stepping into this gap, ensuring that every dollar donated goes directly to research on prevention, treatment, and eventual cures. She reports on the most exciting findings from this year's FAF Summit. 

We discuss:

• How a mother's love became a catalyst for global change
• The food allergy crisis: stats, trends, and what's fueling the growth
• The disproportionately low amount of funding, and how FAF is turning the tide
• Ongoing research on the microbiome and AI predictive model for food challenges

Tune in to learn about this innovative model reshaping food allergy research and how you can be part of it.

Food Allergy Fund
Food Allergy Fund (@foodallergyfund) • Instagram photos and videos
Food Allergy Fund | Facebook
Food Allergy Fund (@foodallergyfund) / X

Ilana's mental health: Invisible Burden: The Mental Health Cost of Food Allergies - Thrive Global
2025 Summit Videos: FAF Summit April 2025 — Food Allergy Fund

Every Cure – Unlocking the hidden potential of existing drugs to save lives

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This challenging and important episode concludes our spring season, "I Don't Want to Talk About It." 

We tackle one of the most difficult questions food-allergic families may face: “Could I die from my food allergy?” Though we hesitate to bring it up, kids often overhear scary headlines, which there have been far too many of recently. When they ask, avoiding the topic or lying can erode trust and leave them unanchored.

I share why considering your responses ahead of time is important, give insight into how to recognize that the time is right, and walk through what conversations might sound like at different ages. Highlights include:

• Signs your child might be worrying, even if they haven’t asked
• Age‑appropriate guidance from preschoolers through teens
• Why clarity, calm, and validation are essential—and when to use them
• How parents can manage their own anxiety about the topic
• Tips for creating moments when kids feel safe bringing up “the hard stuff”

This episode offers practical tools and compassionate insight, helping families deepen connection, create emotional safety, and bring confidence and groundedness to an important and challenging conversation.

Fatal Anaphylaxis: Mortality Rate and Risk Factors - PMC 

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This episode is the third in a series of recent discussions about Food Allergies and Intimacy. I encourage you to listen to Parts 1 and 2 to provide the medical background and social/emotional context for this episode.

In this deeply touching conversation, I sit down with Portia Barton, whose tween daughter Charlotte tragically died in 2022 from a mysterious allergic reaction. While she shared part of the story at the time, understandably some details remained unclear as the family processed and mourned their child's death, and gathered information trying to understand the events that led to her passing.  Portia now feels ready to share the full story in order to inform and protect the food allergy community. 

This episode is a quiet conversation with powerful resonance. Portia's courage in sharing her story invites empathy and fosters awareness that intimacy with food allergies can have life-and-death consequences.

Trigger Warning:
This episode contains detailed discussion of the events leading to the tragic death of a child due to an allergic reaction triggered by a kiss. This description may be distressing—please listen with care and consider skipping if you're experiencing the loss of a loved one or have young children present. This episode may be best processed with supportive company. 

Please know that we did not share this conversation in order to shock or ignite fear in the food allergy community. Instead, we feel this is important information for young people and parents to understand in order to grasp the reality of the potential risks of kissing with food allergies.

Portia has generously made herself available to any questions/discussions that the audience may have. Please be respectful and considerate of the family's loss in any comments shared with her directly or on social media. 

You can follow Charlotte's legacy here:
 About | Live Like Charlotte
@livelikechar
 
You can follow Portia's grief journey on social media @iamportiabarton

Thank you again to Portia for sharing this important story.  💙 

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

It was an honor to record this Father's Day and Men's Mental Health month episode with Thomas Silvera, co-founder of the Elijah‑Alavi Foundation. In this discussion, Thomas revisits the tragic passing of his 3-year-old son, Elijah, due to a fatal allergic reaction at daycare, and explore how that loss sparked a nationwide advocacy movement. He shares the Foundation's progress with Elijah's Law, and also speaks candidly about being a food allergy Dad, his own mental health journey, racial and socioeconomic inequity in food allergy and asthma, and what we can do about it.

Elijah-Alavi Foundation | Non-profit
The Anaphylaxis Strike! a book by Arevlis Sa-Moht and Thomas Silvera - Bookshop.org US

Reach out to me via my website Connect — Amanda Whitehouse Phd or on Instagram @thefoodallergypsychologist to be entered in the giveaway of Thomas' new book, The Anaphylaxis Strike. 

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In Part 2 of our series on dating and intimacy with food allergies, author and mental health professional Sloane Miller joins me to explore the emotional and social dimensions of navigating relationships while managing food allergies.

We delve into the complexities of identity, self-trust, communication, and vulnerability that individuals with food allergies may encounter in romantic contexts. Our conversation also focuses on how parents can proactively prepare their children for these experiences through early empowerment, fostering resilience and self-advocacy.

Please note: This episode contains discussions on mature topics, including dating, intimacy, and emotional well-being in the context of food allergies. These subjects may not be suitable for young children. Listener discretion is advised. 

Join us as we consider:

• Emotional challenges and worries about dating with food allergies
• The importance of teaching consent and boundaries from a young age
• Strategies for effective communication about allergies in relationships
• Parental guidance on building children's confidence and preparedness

This episode aims to empower individuals with food allergies to navigate their personal relationships confidently and safely. Whether you're navigating these experiences yourself or guiding your child through them, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.

To support this discussion, Dr. Whitehouse has created a free handout summarizing the key takeaways from this two-part series. Listeners can request this resource by contacting her through Instagram at @thefoodallergypsychologist or through her website: Connect — Amanda Whitehouse Phd.

You can find Sloane Miller at www.allergicgirl.com and buy her books here: Bookshop.org US including Allergic Girl Guide to Dating a book by Sloane Miller - Bookshop.org US

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In this insightful episode of Don't Feed the Fear, researcher/physician Dr. Scott Sicherer and author/food allergy coach Sloane Miller join Dr. Amanda Whitehouse for a panel discussion focusing on the complexities of dating and physical intimacy for individuals with food allergies.

The group discusses evidence-based guidelines for kissing and physical intimacy when managing food allergies. Dr. Sicherer shares findings from his research and provides practical advice for patients. The discussion includes common concerns and questions voiced within the allergy community, emphasizing the importance of open communication with partners and proactive planning to prevent allergic reactions during intimate moments.

Please note: This episode contains discussions on mature topics, including dating, intimacy, and emotional well-being in the context of food allergies. These subjects may not be suitable for young children. Listener discretion is advised. 

Listeners will gain valuable insights into:

• The science behind allergen persistence in saliva and its implications for physical intimacy.
• Practical steps to minimize the risk of allergic reactions during close contact.
• Strategies for discussing food allergies with partners to foster understanding and safety.
• Examples of ways to talk about this with children beginning at a young age.

To support this discussion, Dr. Whitehouse has created a free handout summarizing the key takeaways from this two-part series. Listeners can request this resource by contacting her through Instagram at @thefoodallergypsychologist or through her website: Connect — Amanda Whitehouse Phd.

This episode aims to empower individuals with food allergies to navigate their personal relationships confidently and safely.

Dr. Sicherer and colleagues' 2006 study: Peanut allergen exposure through saliva: Assessment and interventions to reduce exposure - ScienceDirect

Sloane Miller: www.allergicgirl.com

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Season 4: I Don't Want to Talk About Politics

In this important episode, we’re joined once again by legal advocate and friend of the show, Laurel Francoeur, to unpack the Texas v. Becerra lawsuit—a case brought by 17 states challenging how the federal government enforces Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. This law is crucial for ensuring students with disabilities, including those with food allergies, receive the medical support and accommodations they need at school.

Francoeur helps us make sense of the current legal landscape, including why this lawsuit is on pause for now, what’s at stake for students with food allergies and other medical needs, and how the outcome could shape school-based accommodations across the country.

3 Action Steps You Can Take After Listening:

1. Stay informed by revisiting our previous episode with Laurel, where we took a deeper dive into the legal rights of students with food allergies and explained key laws like the ADA and 504 in more detail.
   https://www.buzzsprout.com/2371319/episodes/15860506
   Blog — The Allergy Lawyer
2. Follow COPAA (Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates), who are working tirelessly to protect the rights of students and families.
   Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, Inc.
3.  Share your story and celebrate the importance of 504 with FAACT
   Accommodations - Celebrate Section 504 - Celebrate Section 504 | FAACT

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In this special Food Allergy Awareness Week episode, we sit down with Chief Mike and Becca Suhy, the founders of the Allison Rose Foundation. Their vibrant, fun-loving, caring, and slightly mischievous daughter Allison's life was tragically cut short by anaphylaxis during her first semester at college. Through their heartbreak, the Suhys have created the foundation as a way to continue caring for Allison—working tirelessly to ensure no other family experiences the same unimaginable loss.

The Allison Rose Foundation is dedicated to preventing food allergy deaths through education, advocacy, and access to epinephrine. You’ll hear about the incredible impact they’re making, including:

• Creating life-saving food allergy and anaphylaxis curriculum for students of all ages
• Partnering with first responders to provide epinephrine training in schools, restaurants, and communities
• Supplying stock epinephrine free of charge to schools and organizations ready to take action

Their story is one of grief transformed into service—a call to all of us to learn, act, and help build a world where children with food allergies are safer, more supported, and never forgotten.

Tune in to honor Allison’s legacy and be inspired to take action, because Food Allergy Awareness isn't just about celebration and education, it's about saving lives. 

Home - Allison Rose Foundation
@allisonrosefoundation

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Season 4: I Don't Want to Talk About It
In this special Mother's Day episode, I'm joined by one of the world's leading allergy researchers — who also happens to be a food allergy mom. While Dr. Ruchi Gupta's professional credentials are impressive, today’s conversation focuses on something even more powerful: her personal experience raising a child with food allergies.

We talk openly about the emotional side of this journey — the guilt, the vigilance, the second-guessing — and share some laughter over things that only food allergy moms will truly understand. It’s a candid, heartfelt conversation about what it means to carry both the clinical knowledge and the lived reality of food allergy parenting.

Some of this episode's many highlights:

• Role playing to educate our children
• Dr. Gupta's sneaky way of making sure her daughter was reading food labels carefully
• Her daughter's allergic reaction at a recent family event
• Gaining and losing allergies during/after pregnancy
• Different approaches of food allergy Moms/Dads and why both are useful
• The positive impact of food allergies on our kids' development

Links from this episode:

• @drruchigupta_
• @cfaarnu
• CFAAR Home Center for Food Allergy & Asthma Research: Feinberg School of Medicine
• 2025 CFAAR FOOD ALLERGY SUMMIT Center for Food Allergy & Asthma Research: Feinberg School of Medicine

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Season 4's theme is "I Don't Want to Talk About It." 

Today, Robyn and Addie Lao and I are talking about it and we hope you'll do more than listen. We hope you'll take action.

Mother-daughter advocates Robyn and Addie are the driving force behind California’s proposed Senate Bill 68 Allergen Disclosure for Dining Experiences (ADDE), alongside the bill’s sponsor, Senator Caroline Menjivar.

💔 At a time when so many of us in the food allergy community are feeling confused, disappointed, or discouraged by the lack of support for this bill from FARE, our largest national advocacy organization… this conversation couldn’t be more timely or more important.

We talk about what it’s like to be connected to the food allergy community through advocacy. What it’s like to be so close to change — and still feel resistance. What it’s like to keep going and turn that resistance into more momentum.

And why clear, consistent allergen labeling in restaurants is not just possible — but urgently needed.

👂 Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about legislation, transparency, and what it means when our community leads from within.

✨ This episode is a reminder that sometimes the hardest conversations…
 are the ones that move us forward the most.

When you're done listening, please take action via the links below:
addie tells all | food allergy
SB 68: Major food allergens. | Digital Democracy

Contact FARE and let them know we want their support for this bill, and the amendments they promised are needed ASAP: Contact Us - FoodAllergy.org

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Welcome to Season 4 of Don't Feed the Fear — a new chapter I'm calling “I Don’t Want to Talk About It.”  This season is all about the things we avoid — the fears we carry in silence, the emotions we push down, and the stories we tell ourselves (and sometimes don’t) about life with food allergies. The episode also touches on last season's discussion of strengthening our trust in our support systems.

This episode is a powerful and tender conversation with retired paramedic and grief guide, John Moir, host of the Urban Grief Shamans podcast and leader of grief healing circles for those navigating deep loss.

In this episode, we explore:

• The hidden emotional toll of food allergy emergencies
• What grief looks like when there's no "death"
• How first responders experience trauma and their role in ours
• Why naming our grief is a crucial step toward healing

John brings a rare blend of insight and compassionate presence, inviting us to look gently at the parts of our story we usually avoid. This is a conversation for anyone who's ever had to hold it together during a crisis — and is now wondering what to do with the weight they still carry.

Whether you’re a parent, a patient, or a professional, this episode is a reminder that grief and anxiety don’t mean something’s wrong with you — they mean something happened. And you deserve support for that.

Urban Grief Shamans - Alternative Spiritual Healing and Growth
Break Free, Reclaim Power & Find Peace with Soulful Healing
Home - Soulful Sorrows
The Wild Edge of Sorrow a book by Francis Weller and Michael Lerner - Bookshop.org US
Vial of Life

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This season’s book club episode kicks off National Poetry Month with memoirist and poet Sandra Beasley. She expertly weaves her wit and wisdom on her own experiences into her writing and discussion about life with food allergies. In this episode, we talk about:
 ✨ Allergies as a punchline or lazy plot device & the impact of these portrayals on real people
 ✨ Topics we need to discuss more including alcohol and allergies and availability of stock epinephrine on airplanes and in other public places
✨Shifting from being cared for to becoming a caregiver as her spouse navigates health concerns

And the best part? She reads her poem Death by Chocolate for us—turning what’s often misunderstood into something deeply felt and fiercely funny.

3 Action Steps:
1. Follow Sandra @sandrabeasley
2. Read her work: Buy Sandra’s books: Bookshop.org US
Recent essay: https://theamericanscholar.org/to-catch-a-sunset-2/
3. Try narrative therapy! Write a letter to your younger self about your experiences, or write a letter to yourself now imagining what your older self would say in the future. 

Sandra Beasley photo credit: Andrew Lightman

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Season 3: Strengthening our Support Systems 

Renowned allergist Dr. David Stukus joins Dr. Whitehouse to discuss the evolving landscape of allergy treatment and what it means for those living with food allergies. We discuss promising new therapies, advancements on the horizon, and what patients should know about emerging treatment options. Beyond the science, we also examine the importance of a strong doctor-patient relationship—what Dr. Stukus sees as the barriers to this and how open communication, trust, and collaboration can improve both medical outcomes and quality of life. 
 
Photo credit: Nationwide Children’s Hospital

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In this episode of Don’t Feed the Fear, host Dr. Whitehouse sits down with Lisa Rutter, the founder of NNMG Food Allergic Families (originally No Nuts Moms Group), one of the largest online support communities for food-allergic families.

Together, they explore the power of connection in navigating the challenges of food allergy parenting. Lisa shares the inspiration behind creating the group, the emotional and practical struggles families face, and how peer support can reduce isolation, anxiety, and trauma responses. They discuss the role of online communities in advocating for safer schools, inclusive social experiences, and emotional resilience for both parents and children.

NNMG Food Allergic Families - Home

FoodAllergy.org

Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Connection Team | FAACT

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Renata Doerr, a board member of the Greater Buffalo Food Allergy Alliance (GBFAA), joins Dr. Whitehouse to discuss the power of local connections in navigating life with food allergies.

Together, they explore how local support networks can make a difference, and the GBFAA's impactful initiatives, including an annual awareness race and fundraising efforts that support community education. Renata also shares her family’s personal journey with oral immunotherapy (OIT), reflecting on the emotional and logistical challenges, as well as the long-term impact on their daily lives and mental health.

Whether you’re seeking support, looking to strengthen your food allergy village, or taking already action in your own community, this conversation offers insight and inspiration for building connection.

GBFOODALLERGY.ORG

Sunday May 18, 2205: Allergy Awareness Action 5k

OIT 101 - Established 2010 - The ORIGINAL OIT Network

Teen Advisory Group - FoodAllergy.org

3 Action Steps:
 1. If you are in the Western New York area, you can find the Greater Buffalo Food Allergy Alliance on Facebook and at gbfoodallergy.org. Our Allergy Awareness Action 5K is Sunday May 18, 2025: Allergy Awareness Action 5k

2. Look for your local group and get involved.

3. Contact me if you'd like me to speak to your local allergy organization or support group: Connect — Amanda Whitehouse Phd

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Dr. Whitehouse speaks with Nishti, a dietitian specializing in food allergies, to explore the critical role of early detection and intervention in managing food allergies. They discuss the latest insights on early food introduction and signs of food allergies, the connection between gut health/inflammation/allergies, and the importance of the microbiome in immune system development.

They also explore the psychological and emotional aspects of food allergies, including how a parent’s mental health can influence their child’s physical and emotional well-being. The conversation also touches on the overlap between neurodivergence and food allergies, the complexities of Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), and how conscious parenting approaches can support children navigating food allergies and anxiety. Finally, they explore the deep mind-body connection in allergy management, offering practical insights for families seeking a conscious approach to food allergy care.

Tune in for a conversation that blends science, psychology, and compassionate strategies to support children and families facing food allergies.

Action Steps:
1. Nutritionist West Midlands | Nishti's Choice | Advanced Dietician

2. Dr. Shefali - Awaken Yourself to a World of Change with Dr. Shefali
3. Take a moment to be present and mindful with your child today! Remind yourself that to shift the focus away from food and onto them as a full, whole, and worthy being just as they are right now. <3

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Mark Elvidge, the founder of Vermont Nut Free Chocolates shares his journey in creating delicious, allergy-friendly chocolate. From the inspiration behind the brand to the challenges of ensuring safety in manufacturing, Mark shares insights into what it takes to make sweet treats accessible to those with food allergies.

They also explore the emotional side of food allergies—how access to safe, enjoyable foods can impact mental health, social experiences, and quality of life. Plus, they discuss the importance of advocacy, ingredient transparency, and what consumers should look for when choosing allergy-friendly products.

Whether you’re managing food allergies yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in the intersection of food, safety, and inclusion, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways. Tune in to learn how one company is making the world a little sweeter for the allergy community!

Vermont Nut Free Chocolates

Safe Snack Guide | SnackSafely.com

Meet the FARE PACT Alliance - FoodAllergy.org

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Dr. Whitehouse explores therapy as a helpful resource for those navigating the emotional and psychological challenges of living with food allergies. She offers practical guidance on how to know if you can benefit from therapy, how to find and choose a therapist who understands food allergies, and how to determine whether a therapist is the right fit for your needs. Whether you're a parent seeking support for a child or an adult managing your own food allergy anxiety, this episode will help you decide if therapy could be a valuable tool in your journey.

Tune in for expert insights on prioritizing your mental health while navigating food allergies.

3 Action Steps:

1. Ask your allergist, local allergy support group, or insurance company for a list of potential therapists. Get your free printable list of questions to ask a potential therapist here: https://www.thefoodallergypsychologist.com/digital-resources/freebiechoosingatherapist
2. If you already have a therapist you like, be open and honest with them about what might help you better
3. Check out my Allergy Empowerment 6-week online group for adults with food allergies and parents of kids with food allergies here: https://www.thefoodallergypsychologist.com/online-courses/foodallergyanxietygroup

-------

Some reasons to consider therapy:

1. Persistent fear/worry
 2. Difficulty managing emotions
 3. Avoiding social situations/isolating yourself
 4. Struggles with communication/self-advocacy
 5. Strong sense of guilt/blame
 6. Physical anxiety symptoms
 7. Unnecessary/repetitive label checking/washing/verifying food safety
 8. Sleep difficulties
 9. Replaying traumatic events
 10. Your thoughts or feelings about food allergies negatively impact your life in a way that you’d like to change
 
 ------
 Types of therapists/licenses
 1. Master’s-Level Clinicians:

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC, LPCC, LMHC, LCPC)
Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW, LICSW, LMSW, LSCSW)
Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT, LCMFT)

2. Doctoral-Level Clinicians

Psychologists (PhD, PsyD)

3. Medical Professionals Who Prescribe Medication

Psychiatrists (MD, DO)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP-BC, APRN)

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Michael Sawers, a talented young musician who opens up about his experiences navigating life with food allergies and OCD. From his teenage years to college and now young adulthood, he shares the challenges and triumphs of managing his health while striving for independence.

Join us as we delve into:

• The impact of food allergies on his mental health and daily life.
• Strategies for transitioning to independent allergy management as a young adult.
• The healing role of music in coping with anxiety and OCD.

Resources mentioned: 

1. Food Allergy Canada: Food Allergy Canada - Food Allergy Canada
2.  Equal Eats Dining Cards: Food Allergy Cards | Translation Cards in 50 Languages – Equal Eats
3. Michael’s Music: https://linktr.ee/themasprojectmusic & on Instagram @the.mas.project
4.  International OCD Foundation | Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
5. Safe and Sound Protocol (Vagus Nerve Music Program): Safe & Sound Protocol — Amanda Whitehouse Phd

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In this episode, Dr. Whitehouse talks with Sarah Hornung, a food allergy mom and dedicated school administrator who shares how her personal journey with food allergies has shaped her professional mission. Together, we explore how to create school environments that go beyond safety measures, addressing the emotional well-being of children navigating the challenges of food allergies. Kids with food allergies don’t just deserve to BE safe, they also deserve to FEEL safe.

Sarah opens up about the thought processes and confessions many of us food allergy parents will understand, offering heartfelt insights into the fears, frustrations, and hopes that come with the territory. We also explore how she utilized all of this to develop policies and practices that incorporate the emotional wellbeing and integration of kids with food allergies into school communities.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or advocate, this conversation highlights the power of empathy and informed action in making schools safer and more supportive for all students.

Find Sarah Hornung @TheEagerTeacher and www.theeagerteacher.com

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Meet Dana Wrubel, a remarkable advocate who turned her personal challenges with food allergies into a powerful platform for change. Through the creation of the magazine and podcast Just Allergy Things by teens, for teens, Dana is empowering others to navigate food allergy anxiety and build resilience. She shares her journey of navigating high school, transitioning to college, and setting ambitious goals for the future. Tune in to hear how Dana is amplifying teen voices and paving the way for greater understanding and support in the allergy community.

FARE's Teen Advisory Group - FoodAllergy.org
Camp Blue Spruce – Creating connection & community for kids with food allergies
www.justallergythings.com

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

As the holidays bring us together, they can also amplify the stress and anxiety of managing food allergies in social settings. In this episode, Dr. Whitehouse provides a comprehensive and specific decision-making framework for navigating holiday gatherings with food allergies. I discuss how to balance the importance of safety with the desire to enjoy this special season, offering actionable strategies for setting and holding boundaries, organizing the day to minimize risks, and communicating your needs clearly to others. Through real-life examples and scenarios, this episode equips you with practical tools to advocate for yourself and manage anxiety, so you can feel empowered to make choices that honor both your health and holiday joy. 

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Courage at Congress 2024: Advocate for a Cure - FoodAllergy.org

EpiPen Price Cap Bill Passes New York Legislature – EpiPens to Cost $100 - FoodAllergy.org

Allergy Friendly Candy and Foods
 Eat Freely - Enjoy Life Foods® | Allergy Friendly & Gluten-Free‎

YumEarth | Organic Candy | Allergy Friendly Candy

Vermont Nut Free Chocolates

88 ACRES | Just Good Nutrition, POWERED by SEEDS – 88 Acres

Red Plate: Gluten Free, Vegan, Dairy Free, & Nut Free Foods – RedPlateFoods

What is the Halloween Switch Witch? (parents.com)

Teal Pumpkin Project - FoodAllergy.org

Treats for Troops Halloween Candy Collection - Soldiers' Angels (soldiersangels.org)

Allergy Awareness Action 5K, Buffalo, NY May 18, 2025
Allergy Awareness Action 5k - Running in Orchard Park — Let’s Do This (letsdothis.com)

Greater Buffalo Food Allergy Alliance: GBFOODALLERGY.ORG

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

This fall we are talking about advocacy, and Laurel Francoeur is joining us to give us an overview of our rights as food allergic individuals. She touches on all the hot topics including allergies in schools, flying with allergies, and our right to safe foods in restaurants. Laurel has been advocating for her son and everyone with food allergies for decades, and continues 

Laurel Francoeur, The Allergy Lawyer
 https://www.theallergylawyer.com/

Resources discussed:

Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE): FoodAllergy.org

Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA): Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America | AAFA | Home

Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Connection Team(FAACT): https://www.foodallergyawareness.org/

Allergy and Asthma Network: Allergy & Asthma Network | Breathe Better Together (allergyasthmanetwork.org)

Allergy Eats: https://www.allergyeats.com/

3 action steps

1.       Buy Laurel’s books, Flying with Food Allergies and How to Advocate for Your Food Allergic Child, both available on amazon or on her website theallergylawyer.com/books

2.       In September, Laurel did a workshop with FARE called Protecting Food Allergic Students in Schools: Know Your Rights and the replay is available online. Protecting Food Allergic Students in School: Know Your Rights (foodallergyacademy.org)

3.       Check the section of FARE’s website called Know Your Rights. Topics including school guidelines, access to epinephrine, restaurants, and even becoming an advocate if you are interested. Know Your Rights - FoodAllergy.org

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Destiny Davis, the Chronic Illness Therapist, joins me to discuss the powerful connection between attachment styles and coping mechanisms for managing food allergy anxiety and trauma. Together, we explore how attachment patterns—secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized—influence emotional regulation and stress responses in individuals with food allergies and those caring for them.

The conversation explores how understanding one’s attachment style can help build healthier coping strategies, improve relationships, and reduce anxiety in challenging situations like allergen exposure and medical trauma. Destiny also provides practical tips for parents and individuals to recognize their attachment styles and effective tips for managing anxiety.

Destiny offers clinical insight and accessible advice for anyone looking to deepen their self-awareness and enhance their coping skills, whether they are managing food allergies themselves or supporting a loved one.

Episode Highlights:
-Attachment styles and our coping skills
-Mindfulness
-ACE strategy from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Acknowledge/Accept, Come back into my body, Engage with the world/my values
-Brene Brown: FFT (the [Fricking] First Time)
 Quotes:

1. "Pay attention to what your symptoms are without trying to make meaning" (a.k.a., constantly searching for THE diagnosis.)
2. “Mindfulness is not a way to cure your anxiety. It’s a way to pay attention to your anxiety.”
3. “Typically, if you are the type of person that fearfully moves toward a problem, you are likely more anxiously attached. And if you fearfully move away from problems, you're more avoidantly attached. Securely attached is when you know how to ebb and flow and move toward and away as appropriate, and there's not a lot of anxiety with it. It's more just a feeling of sureness and calmness...Fight is moving toward a problem, flight is moving away."

 Action steps:

1. Listen to the Chronic Illness Therapist Podcast: Podcast links — The Chronic Illness Therapist
2. Go to Destiny’s website for groups and other opportunities: The Chronic Illness Therapist
3. Check out Brene Brown’s work: Brené Brown (brenebrown.com) (I highly recommend starting with the book Atlas of the Heart)

 #FoodAllergyAnxiety #AnxietyRelief #TraumaRecovery #AttachmentStyles #CopingSkills

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In our summer book club, meet children’s book author Emily Reed, who channeled her own anxiety about her son’s food allergies into a book to teach him confidence and self-advocacy. Emily and I dive deep into her journey as a mother navigating the complexities of having two kids with food allergies and FPIES, the fears and guilt that come with it, and how she channeled those emotions into creativity and advocacy. We discuss the role of literature as a powerful tool in transforming anxiety into empowerment for both parents and children.

 Mentioned in this episode:

Red Sneakers For Oakley

Home - Allison Rose Foundation

Big, Brave Voice: Advice for Children Living with Food Allergies a book by Emily A. Reed (bookshop.org)

Email Emily at bigbravevoice@gmail.com

FREEBIE:
For my free food allergy book recommendation printable go to www.DrAmandaWhitehouse.com/

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Food Allergy Bravery Clinic | Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (chop.edu)

What is Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)?:
 Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder - NEDA (nationaleatingdisorders.org)

Three things:

1.        After Anaphylaxis resource: Cards (mountsinai.org)

2.       Tell your story to a safe, trusted person, all the way through to the point of conclusion and return to safety

3.       Epi Experts group starting 8/21/24: www.DrAmandaWhitehouse.com/epi-experts-group

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

3 Action Steps:
1. Request my Epi Confidence Weekend Challenge FREEBIE at www.DrAmandaWhitehouse.com/connect

2. Make an appointment with your allergist to review any questions about epinephrine use
FARE Allergy Action Plan: https://www.foodallergy.org/media/935/download

3. Join me for my Epi Experts Group
4-week small group, virtual sessions
Wednesdays 7-8:15 pm EST beginning 8/21
Replays available if you can't join live
www.DrAmandaWhitehouse.com/epi-experts-group

Resources discussed in this EPIsode:

EPINEPHRINE AUTOINJECTOR UTILIZATION AND ACCESS IN A NATIONALLY REPRESENTATIVE FOOD-ALLERGIC ADULT SAMPLE - ScienceDirect

Anaphylaxis: A 2023 practice parameter update - Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (annallergy.org)

FARE Allergy Action Plan: https://www.foodallergy.org/media/935/download

Proposed Modified Anaphylaxis Criteria for Infants and Toddlers:

Mass General for Children Investigators Propose Modified Criteria for Identifying Anaphylaxis in Infants and Young Children

Development and Evaluation of Modified Criteria for Infant and Toddler Anaphylaxis - The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice (jaci-inpractice.org)

Allergy Confidence Activities:
Song - Epi Man by Kyle Dine (kyledine.com)
Power Pose TEd Talk by Amy Cuddy: Your body language may shape who you are | Amy Cuddy | TED - YouTube

Epinephrine injector instructions:
howtouseepipenautoinjector.pdf
ifu-poster.pdf (auvi-q.com)
epinephrine_1872-01_PI_Art5 page 1 without Legend (epinephrineautoinject.com)
 

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with a remarkable musician and educator Kyle Dine who has turned his personal challenges with food allergies into a powerful platform for awareness and advocacy. Join us as Kyle shares his journey of living with food allergies, from his own struggles in childhood to becoming a confident advocate.

Kyle delves into how and why music became a unique and effective medium to spread awareness about food allergies. He discusses how his songs entertain and educate listeners on the realities of managing food allergies, fostering empathy and understanding.

Listeners will hear firsthand accounts of how Kyle navigated his own food allergy management, developing strategies to build confidence and ensure safety. He even describes what it feels like to use his epinephrine injector, in hopes of reducing fear and increasing trust in the treatment. By sharing his experiences, he hopes to empower others to live fully and fearlessly despite their allergies.

www.kyledine.com
www.equaleats.com

Mentioned by Kyle in this episode:
www.foodallergy.org (FARE)
foodallergycanada.ca
www.jacionline.org

Plan ahead for August's Book Club episode now by reading Big, Brave Voice by Emily Reed:
bookshop.org/p/books/big-brave-voice-advice-for-children-living-with-food-allergies-emily-a-reed/21215362?ean=9798822915657

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

In our first episode, let's dive into the intricate connection between food allergy anxiety, trauma, and the autonomic nervous system. For those living with food allergies, the fear of accidental exposure and the potential for life-threatening reactions can create a pervasive sense of anxiety and trauma. But why does this happen, what makes it different from anxiety about other topics or other traumatic experiences, and what role does the autonomic nervous system play in these experiences?

Join Dr. Whitehouse to explore how the autonomic nervous system—responsible for regulating many involuntary functions in the body, including the fight-or-flight response—contributes to the heightened state of alertness and fear commonly experienced by individuals with food allergies. Using everyday language, Dr. Whitehouse helps you understand the science behind how our bodies react to perceived threats and how past traumatic events related to allergies can further exacerbate this response.

Understanding that the autonomic nervous system is deeply involved in our responses to allergens, we shift our focus to practical strategies for establishing a sense of safety and reducing anxiety. We emphasize the importance of creating a supportive environment, both physically and emotionally, to help calm the nervous system and mitigate the intense reactions it can trigger.

To wrap up the episode, you'll hear three actionable steps listeners can take immediately to begin applying what they have learned:

1. Look for Glimmers
2. Watch the movies Inside Out and Inside Out 2
3. Subscribe to the Don't Feed the Fear podcast and/or Dr. Whitehouse's mailing list at www.DrAmandaWhitehouse.com

By understanding the connection between the autonomic nervous system and allergy anxiety, and by implementing these practical steps, listeners can begin to reclaim a sense of safety and well-being in their daily lives. Tune in to learn how to navigate the complexities of food allergy anxiety and trauma with knowledge, resilience, and confidence.

Join me for this empowering episode as we uncover the physiological roots of allergy anxiety and trauma and equip you with the tools to establish safety and peace of mind. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your approach to living with food allergies and take control of your emotional health.

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com

Special thanks to Kyle Dine for permission to use his song The Doghouse for the podcast theme!
www.kyledine.com

Find Dr. Whitehouse:
-thefoodallergypsychologist.com
-Instagram: @thefoodallergypsychologist
-Facebook: Dr. Amanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety Psychologist
-welcome@dramandawhitehouse.com