How Do Dietitian Nutritionists Help with Food Allergies?

Food allergies can turn your entire world upside down. When someone gets diagnosed with food allergies, the first thing they usually think is: "What can I even eat anymore?" That's where a dietitian nutritionist for food allergies comes in...

What Does a Nutritionist for Food Allergies Actually Do?

Think of dietitian nutritionists as your food detectives and meal planners rolled into one. The focus is on what you CAN eat and how to make your dietary restrictions work for your life, ensuring you are receiving optimal nutrition.

When major food groups are eliminated from the diet like dairy, wheat, or nuts, your body may not get all of the nutrients it needs. Dietitian nutritionists identify which nutrients you're missing and helps find safe ways to get them back into your diet.

Plus, a dietitian nutritionist can also provide education on how to read food labels, if needed. Long ingredient lists can be scary at first, but once you know what to look for, it becomes second nature.

Make Sure You Get All Your Nutrients

This is probably the most important part of what we do. First, we begin by assessing your current diet, then make suggestions on vitamins and supplements to fill in any gaps. For example, those with a dairy allergy may be deficient in calcium, vitamin D, and protein. We provide suggestions on ways to incorporate lost nutrients from restrictive diets through foods and supplements.

Plan Meals That Actually Taste Good

No more boring food and repeating meal options. We take a collaborative approach in creating meal plans that are both safe and delicious. We find substitutes that work well in your favorite recipes and share new recipes and foods that bring back joy and excitement to your meals.

How a Dietitian Nutritionist for Food Allergies Helps Your Whole Family

Food allergies do not just affect the person who has them. They affect everyone in the house. Parents worry about their children might not get sufficient nutrition. Kids feel left out at birthday parties. Parents and entire families oftentimes change their cooking and eating habits to focus on safe foods for their children. Dietitians for food allergies support the whole family. This may include:

1. Teaching parents how to pack safe school lunches and lunch options

2. Helping kids understand their allergies without feeling scared and shame

3. Showing families how to eat together while keeping everyone safe

4. Planning for holidays and special events

Teach You to Navigate the Real World

Having food allergies means you need to be cautious when you're not at home. Dietitian nutritionists teach you practical skills like:

1. How to ask questions at restaurants without feeling embarrassed

2. What to look for when reading menus

3. How to prepare for travel or eating outside of the home

4. Ways to handle social situations involving food

The Emotional Side of Food Allergies

This part is huge but often gets overlooked. Food allergies can make people feel anxious,

isolated, or overwhelmed. Some people develop unhealthy relationships with food because they're scared of having reactions. A dietitian nutritionist for food allergies helps you work through these feelings. We want you to feel confident and relaxed about eating, not stressed and worried.

The Bottom Line

The goal isn't just to help you survive with food allergies – it's to help you thrive. A dietitian nutritionist for food allergies wants you to enjoy food again, feel confident in social situations, and know that you're taking good care of your health. Many people think having food allergies means giving up their favorite foods forever. While some foods might be off-limits, we help you discover new favorites.

Are you living with food allergies or poor nutrition? Schedule an online appointment today! As a registered dietitian and FARE-certified provider, we can help you build a healthy, satisfying diet that keeps you safe and well-nourished. We are here to make sure food allergies do not control your life – you do.

Contact us now