Valentine’s Day is a time for love, friendship, and sweet treats. But for teenagers with milk or nut allergies, it can bring a few extra challenges (and stress). From navigating relationships, to finding restaurants and choosing safe treats.
That being said, this blog will explore fantastic tips and simple things you can do to celebrate Valentine’s Day – in an allergy friendly way!
Dating tips for teens with allergies
From romantic dinners to surprise chocolates, allergens can sneak into unexpected places.
1. Let your date know about your allergies early on!
This will help friends and dates understand how serious it is and allow them to best support you. Talking about allergies doesn’t have to be awkward or embarrassing – Remember, managing allergies is important for your health, and people will respect that.
2. Choose allergy friendly restaurants.
Don’t just take their word for it – look at the menu online or call the restaurant beforehand and speak to them about suitable options, the risk of cross contamination and how food is prepared. You’re bound to feel more relaxed that way.
Check (and double check) when the food arrives. If you don’t have confidence its best not to take the risk! And – always keep your adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs) with you!
3. Be mindful what your date is eating.
Allergens from food can linger in the mouth even after brushing teeth. Politely ask your date to avoid eating foods you’re allergic to before sharing food and drinks, and even kissing.
4. Plan allergy safe dates.
You could try suggesting ideas for safe places to eat or activities to do that you know and trust (and love). You’ll feel much more relaxed. Get creative – romantic dinners are lovely, but they aren’t the only option! Have you considered activities like crazy golf, the cinema or an escape room?
5. Have a plan in your head for if anything goes wrong!
Possibly the most beneficial of all the tips – is to try and think about scenarios in advance so that you have a plan for if things do not go how you expected (or planned).
Allergy safe treats
Love is in the air—and so is allergy awareness with our breakdown of tasty allergen free treats this Valentine’s Day!
Nomo Chocolate
Whether you’re vegan, have a food allergy NOMO offers chocolatey deliciousness that’s free from dairy, gluten, eggs, and nuts. Available at Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Waitrose and Holland & Barrett.
Cocoa Libre
Handmade chocolate from an independent small business, Cocoa Libre offers chocolate that everyone can enjoy, free from dairy, nuts, gluten and vegan friendly.
Moo Free Chocolate offer delicious dairy dodging chocolate options. Available at Tesco, Morrisons, Asda and Waitrose.
Lazy Day Foods create irresistible gluten-free, milk-free and egg-free vegan/plant-based goodies, hand baked with love.
Don’t forget supermarkets are packed with free from own brand options, just make sure to always check the labels for allergens and cross contamination risk.
Last but not least, if you’re feeling adventurous you could try baking your own allergen free heart shaped treats or dairy free chocolate covered strawberries, raspberries, or banana slices. If it’s a savoury treat that you’re after– nothing says love more than a homemade pizza using dairy free cheese (if you have access to a kitchen of course).
Share these tips to help spread allergy awareness this Valentine’s Day!