“I’m sorry I can’t eat that, I’m allergic.”
“Do you know if this restaurant is gluten free friendly?”
“I’m not that hungry anyway.”
“I’ll just carry a snack for myself.”
“It’s probably just easier if I bring my own food.”
College is a time where you’re life is constantly changing and evolving. It’s a time for branching out and trying new things. However, experimenting with new foods might not be the best idea if your list of food allergies is longer than the number of classes you’re taking. And if you’re anything like me, and you don’t want to keep sounding like a broken record when talking about your allergies, here are some tips and tricks to follow to make college life a little easier.
1. Self-awareness and Self-care
First and foremost, make sure you know everything you can about your food allergies. You’re in college now, so you can no longer rely on your mom or dad to remember everything you can’t eat. Next time you’re at the doctor’s office, ask any and all questions you have regarding your allergies. Make sure you know exactly what foods to avoid, and what to do in case you accidentally eat something you’re supposed to avoid.
2. Contact Dining Services
Often, college campuses have dieticians or nutritionists who can provide you with more information regarding the food made in the dining halls. Some colleges even have programs that allow you to call ahead and order a meal that is tailored to your dietary needs. Make sure you get in contact with them within the first few weeks of the semester while you still have some free time!
3. Keep your dorm fully stocked
When your list of allergies makes you wish you could just survive on water and air, keeping a fully stocked dorm room can relieve some stress. Keep easy, on-the-go snacks for when you’re running late to class and/or are just too lazy to go to the dining hall. Also, try to keep food in your dorm that can satisfy late-night cravings. This way, when all your friends are ordering food at 3 a.m. that you can’t eat, you’ll still be able to eat alongside them.
4. Tell your roommate
For obvious reasons, your roommate should be aware of your food allergies. Give your roommate a heads up, especially if you have allergies that prevent you from being around certain foods! Also, if you agree to share food, make them aware of cross-contamination issues.
5. Let your friends know how they can help
It’s probably a good idea to keep your friends informed on how they can help in the event of an allergic reaction. Your friends will always have your back, so don’t be afraid to let them know what they can do to help you out. The last thing they would want is for something to happen to you and have no idea what to do.
6. Avoid free food
Unless you can be absolutely positive that there was no cross-contamination in the making of the food, it’s probably better to steer clear. As much as we all want to take one of those free cupcakes they are giving out in the quad, it’s safer to opt out.
7. Carry an information card in your wallet
It’s never a bad idea to be extra cautious. Make a small business card with your name, birthday, and information regarding your food allergies that could be crucial for someone to know in the event of an allergic reaction.
8. Create a portable “In Case of Emergency” kit
Whether you need to carry an EpiPen with you at all times or not, it’s important to carry any essentials you may need throughout the day. Pick up a small cosmetic bag from your local dollar store; something that can be personalized, and easily moved from one bag to another. Include things like an EpiPen (if needed), Benadryl, small snacks (bars, fruit snacks), and emergency contact information.
Don’t be afraid to speak up and tell others what you need. You’re not going to offend anyone by telling them you cannot eat something they made. Whether with a group of friends or at a restaurant, speak up about your allergies. After all, it’s your health at risk! So go out, enjoy college, and put your food allergy concerns behind you.