• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
G-Free Foodie logo
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers & Snacks
    • Baked Goods
    • Beverages
    • Dairy Free
    • Desserts
    • Kid Zone
    • Main Dishes
    • Paleo Friendly
    • Quick & Easy
    • Recipes & Techniques by Cooks We Love
    • Salads & Dressings
    • Side Dishes
    • Soups
    • Tips & Tricks
    • Vegan
  • Articles
    • Dining Tips
    • G-Free Foodie Guides
    • G-Free Foodie Mommies
    • G-Free Foodie Product Reviews
    • Gluten Free Advice + Experts
    • KC's Blog
  • About
  • Shop
  • Help!
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
search icon
Homepage link
  • Browse Recipes
  • Articles
  • About
  • Shop
  • Help!
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Home / Articles / Gluten Free Advice + Experts

    The Psychological Aspects of Food Allergies & Celiac Disease: Part I

    Posted On Sep 21, 2011 · Updated On Sep 21, 2011

    The Psychological Aspects of Food Allergies & Celiac Disease: Part I
    Gluten Free Advice + Experts

    Share

    Guest article courtesy of Jennifer Leeson, LCSW.

    Living with life threatening food allergies, celiac disease, or other significant food restrictions can be challenging in ways that go beyond knowing what to eat and what to avoid. The negative impact of having food allergies can greatly affect one’s emotional and social well being and their quality of life.

    Research into the specific impacts of living with food allergies or celiac disease is being done, though still on a relatively small scale. Studies related to these issues have identified a number of areas of specific concern: aspects of general health; activities within the family; eating outside the home; eating within school environments; reactions of other people; food labeling; previous allergic reactions to food; co-existing allergies; impact of the food allergy on quality of life of caregivers; and burden of responsibility. (A small, yet notable impact has also been reported on one’s career/work environment.)

    In particular the research has indicated a significant psychosocial impact on children, adolescents, and their families. Most notably is the considerable effect on daily family activities and socialization in regards to the continuous attention needed to avoid the exposure to allergens for one or more members of the family. The populations most adversely affected are: females, parents of young children, and adolescents. Of these, the most significantly affected is mothers of severely allergic children.

    If you or someone you know is affected by food allergies and/or celiac disease, then you may have experienced, or are currently feeling the related adverse impact on quality of life first hand. These impacts can lead to intense fear and anxiety, as well as frustration and anger. Online chat rooms related to these topics are populated with individuals seeking support for these very real emotions.

    --------------

    The IBS Treatment Center thanks Jenn Leeson for this month’s lead article. If you are feeling stress, anxiety, or overwhelming unhappiness caused by your own or your child’s food allergies, we encourage you to find the support you need through counseling, therapy, or a local support group.

    To find a support group in your area, check out one of the following websites (just click the name):

    Gluten Intolerance Group of North America
    Celiac Sprue Association USA
    The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network
    Washington FEAST (local, grass-roots support group for families dealing with food allergies)

    Stay tuned for Part II on The Psychological Aspects of Food Allergies and Celiac Disease.

    Article Courtesy:  Dr. Stephen Wangen

    You May Also Like

    • The Psychological Aspects of Food Allergies & Celiac Disease
      The Psychological Aspects of Food Allergies & Celiac…
    • What are Lectins; and could I Be Allergic to Lectins?
      What are Lectins; and could I Be Allergic to Lectins?
    • The Psychological Aspects of Food Allergies & Celiac Disease: Part II
      The Psychological Aspects of Food Allergies & Celiac…
    • The Most Common Cooking Mistakes!
      The Most Common Cooking Mistakes!
    « Product Review: Nonuttin' Foods, Inc. granola bars
    Ask the Dietitian: Gluten-Free & Low-Glycemic Diet »

    Share

    Reader Interactions

    Let Us Know What You Think Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    K.C. the G-Free Foodie

    K.C. is a farm-grown foodie, born and raised in the fertile fields of California’s San Joaquin Valley. After being diagnosed with Celiac Disease following years of unexplained illness, she has infused her gluten-free life with flavor, fork in hand. Learn more about K.C.

    Featured Recipes

    celery salad in bowls for serving

    Deliciously Easy Celery Salad with Mozzarella + Roasted Peppers

    a bowl of homemade chili

    Nigella's Homemade Chili Recipe with a Secret Ingredient

    how to cook duck breast: perfectly cooked duck breast on salad

    How To Cook Duck Breast: Tea Brined Duck Breast

    gluten free coconut layer cake recipe

    The BEST Gluten-Free Coconut Cake

    SHOP GLUTEN FREE FAVES

    Popular Categories

    • Appetizers + Snacks
    • Beverages
    • Desserts
    • Dining Tips
    • Main Dishes
    • Quick + Easy
    • Salads + Dressings
    • Soups
    • Tips + Tricks

    Footer

    People

    • About Us
    • K.C. Cornwell
    • G-Free Foodie Gluten Free Advocates + Experts

    Business

    • Partnerships
    • Contact
    • Gluten Free Consulting Services
    • Privacy Policy & Disclaimer
    • Links & Cool Stuff

    Follow Me

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
    • TikTok

    G-Free Foodie © 2023 · All Rights Reserved