#5: Friendship and Mental Health Amid Food Allergy Life with the Food Allergy Moms

Let's Talk Food Allergies
Written By Lisa Woodruff, RDN

On this episode I chat with Katie and Lauren, also known as the Food Allergy Moms. Katie and Lauren started the Food Allergy Mom blog in early 2022 and quickly grew a community as The Food Allergy Moms on Instagram. They are passionate about providing support, ideas, and resources for moms raising littles with food allergies.

In addition to sharing how the Food Allergy Mom blog came to fruition, they share the importance of their friendship as well as prioritizing mental health amid life as food allergy parents. And now, let’s talk food allergies!

In this episode of Let’s Talk Food Allergies:

  • Many food allergy parents feel so alone; as if we are the only ones with these questions, fears, and anxieties. While we have individual journeys into the world of food allergies, finding friendship can provide the gift of feeling understood and seen.

  • As a new mom, you already feel clueless in the beginning. With a new food allergy diagnosis, it changes how you interact with food, think about food, deal with food, and also the social element. It really is a lot to learn.

  • Each child is different; each food allergy family has different needs. While an Allergist is the medical professional, as the parent you know your child best and are a valued member of your child’s food allergy team. Your input is important and should be welcomed when making medical decisions for your child.

  • There is a level of trauma that comes with elements of living a food allergy life. It can have an impact on our overall mental health and wellness and it is okay to pay attention to that and seek out counseling help (see resources below).

  • Katie and Lauren’s suggestions for building positive female friendships:

    • Find someone who can understand and support your feelings, anxieties, and trauma as it relates to food allergy parenting.

    • It may take time to find that supportive friendship; don’t give up or quit looking. There are local food allergy support groups, social media support groups, and even some allergy clinics offer support groups as well.

    • Statistically speaking, there is a good chance you will run into other food allergy families through activities or sports or school events. Continue to be intentional in your search for additional support and friendships.

    • Ultimately, be open to finding your best support system outside of the food allergy community by learning how to socially engage with others and communicate your child’s food allergy needs.

    • Building a community can be daunting, but challenge yourself to get out into situations where your family will meet other people. Challenge yourself to take a step outside of your comfort zone and be willing to be vulnerable when engaging others. Also, try to be intentional with reaching out to check in with new people you meet and respond to those text messages!

Connect with The Food Allergy Moms:

The Food Allergy Moms’ list of Top 9 Resources for New Food Allergy Moms, in addition to many other helpful resources, can be found on their blog, Food Allergy Mom. A new post is shared every Tuesday morning.

Food Allergy Resources mentioned in this episode:

Connect with Lisa:

Lisa’s first children’s book, Be a Food Allergy Helper! is available online wherever books are sold. Learn more at lisawoodruffnutrition.com/books.

Disclaimer: This conversation, and podcast in general, is provided for general information purposes only; it is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. As always, individuals with food allergies should consult with their healthcare team to create an individualized Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plan.

Special thanks for assistance with this podcast:


Copyright (C) 2023 Lisa Woodruff Nutrition

Lisa Woodruff, RDN

Lisa is a FARE-trained registered dietitian and food allergy mom. She helps families and individuals learn how to confidently manage food allergies while nurturing a healthy relationship with food. Lisa is a food allergy dietitian licensed to practice in Iowa, Illinois, and Nebraska. She also wrote the children’s book Be a Food Allergy Helper! and hosts the podcast Let’s Talk Food Allergies.

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