As part of our Food Allergy Awareness Month series, we sat down with Dr. Lauren Severs, pediatrician at the Food Allergy Institute, to tackle some of the most common myths and misconceptions about food allergies.
⬆️ Watch the full interview replay below and scroll down for a detailed Q&A breakdown from our chat.
Q&A with Dr. Lauren Severs
Hosted by Niki Jones, San Diego Moms
MYTH: Food allergies and food intolerances are the same thing.
FACT: They’re completely different. Food allergies involve the immune system and can cause life-threatening reactions like anaphylaxis. Intolerances (like lactose intolerance) involve the digestive system and lead to discomfort—not danger.
MYTH: A small amount of the allergen won’t hurt.
FACT: Even trace amounts can trigger severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Some people react from cross-contact alone—without directly eating the food.
MYTH: You can outgrow any food allergy over time.
FACT: Only some children build tolerance to allergens like eggs or dairy. Most severe allergies, especially to peanuts or tree nuts, are unlikely to go away—especially after early childhood.
MYTH: You don’t need an epinephrine auto-injector unless you’ve had a severe reaction.
FACT: Any reaction could lead to a more serious one next time. Carrying an epinephrine auto-injector is strongly recommended after any food-allergic reaction.
MYTH: Food allergies are caused by overprotective parenting or environments that are “too clean.”
FACT: The “hygiene hypothesis” remains unproven. Food allergies appear in all kinds of families and environments. Genetics and multiple unknown environmental factors play a role.
MYTH: A negative skin or blood test means you’re not allergic.
FACT: Not always. False negatives (and positives) happen. A thorough clinical history and cautious food introduction are always necessary—even with negative test results.
MYTH: OIT (Oral Immunotherapy) and TIP (Tolerance Induction Program) are the same.
FACT: They’re different approaches. TIP is personalized using biosimilar foods, extensive testing, and a stepwise process. OIT uses standardized doses and may carry higher risk for reactions in more sensitive patients.
MYTH: Only children can be treated for food allergies.
FACT: While the Food Allergy Institute currently treats patients up to age 25, they are researching and piloting adult treatment programs as well.
MYTH: If your child only has mild reactions, their allergy isn’t serious.
FACT: Mild reactions can escalate over time. Each exposure may make the body more sensitized, increasing the risk of a future severe reaction.
Dr. Severs reminded us that while food allergies are on the rise, so is hope—thanks to programs like TIP. With careful treatment, families can reclaim daily joys like restaurant meals, birthday parties, and travel.
To learn more about the Food Allergy Institute, access their webinars, or schedule a consultation, visit their website (link below).
✅ Stay tuned for our final Food Allergy Awareness Month livestream next Wednesday, May 28th at 12 PM—and don’t miss your chance to win prizes like movie passes and event tickets!
