When Food Feels Unsafe: Supporting Eating Competence with Food Allergy and Celiac Disease

Webinar for professionals presented by Amanda Whitehouse, PhD, licensed psychologist

September 16, 2026, 12:30 pm CT – 2 pm CT

Food allergy and celiac disease are often viewed primarily as medical conditions requiring dietary management, vigilance, and ongoing education. Yet for many individuals and families, their impact extends well beyond food choices. Fear of reactions, uncertainty about safety, hypervigilance, social limitations, anxiety, and trauma can significantly affect quality of life and interfere with the development or maintenance of Eating Competence.

Individuals may become fearful of unfamiliar foods, avoid eating in social situations, struggle with flexibility around food, or experience persistent anxiety despite having the knowledge and skills to manage their condition.

Advances in early allergen introduction, immune development, skin barrier research, and prevention have reshaped long-held assumptions about allergic disease. Emerging treatments offer new opportunities while introducing additional decisions, uncertainties, and emotional challenges. As a result, healthcare professionals increasingly encounter concerns that extend beyond nutrition and medical management into anxiety, behavior, family dynamics, and decision-making.

This webinar explores how fear, anxiety, trauma, and nervous system responses influence eating behaviors in individuals with food allergy and celiac disease. Particular attention will be given to recognizing when medically appropriate caution begins to shift toward anxiety-driven avoidance, rigidity, or restriction that may undermine Eating Competence and quality of life.

Through case studies, participants will learn to identify common manifestations of food- related anxiety. Practical, evidence-informed strategies will be presented to help professionals support clients while fully respecting legitimate medical concerns and necessary dietary restrictions.

Pending approval for 1.5 Level II CEUs from the Commission on Dietetic Registration.

Your purchase gives you access to the recordings for one year.

Student and equity discounts available. Contact [email protected] for more information.