Teen & College Survival Guide

Nowadays it seems there is always somebody near by who has a
food allergy or is following a 'different' or 'weird' diet.  Yeah, we all know
that kid.  Well, being a teen with a food allergy or dietary restriction
is nothing short of nearly impossible.  With the help of this guide,
no young adult will ever have to suffer through awkward social situations,
or compromise their favorite foods any longer.
 

Tips for Teens & Prospect College Students

  • When dining out with friends, always look at the online menu BEFORE you get to the restaurant...it will give you a good idea of what exactly you should be looking for (a yummy salad is always a good option for any dietary restriction!)
  • Fully research your dietary restriction or allergy so you have as much background knowledge as possible when you inevitably have to explain why you're not eating the bread/meat/milk, etc...
  • Be familiar with college websites and their dining options...usually bigger schools have more options when it comes to catering for a wide range of dietary needs
  • When attending a party, whether it be with friends or family, volunteer to bring something that YOU will be able to eat!
  • Always have little snacks handy with you at school or after sports practices...if you're hungry, you can only depend on yourself to serve your own needs
  • Buy cookbooks that are devoted to creating vegan/gluten free/lactose intolerant/nut free/vegetarian etc, and have family and friends taste test them...playing an active role in promoting your wellness & way of life!
  • When you're friends go out to eat and there is absolutely nothing on the menu you are able to drink...order a fountain drink, carbonated water, or iced tea!  Its a great way to be social while treating your body right.
  • During conversations with new people, try to find a way to discretely mention your special dietary requirements...you never know who else out there is alike you, plus its a great conversation topic!
College Survival Guide 101
  • Stock your dorm closet with a supply of easy to make meals, snacks, and drinks that you are able to eat...by sharing this food with your friends, this can be a great way to show them how delicious your food really is!
  • Never be afraid to ask the cafeteria workers what the ingredients are in a food, if it is not listed...they would be more than happy to share with a kind student how the food they're serving was prepared
  • Whenever you plan on going out alone or with friends, always carry a small snack in a bag or your pocket that you can eat if plans change...you never want to be unprepared!
  • If your college has a specific cafeteria dedicated to allergies, an emphasis on gluten and lactose free foods, or a vegan/vegetarian entrées, go with your friends to their favorite dining hall, and grab either a salad or a drink, and then have them go with you to get your own delicious meal
  • Invest in a microwave...there are so many great dietary restricted easy to prepare meals (think quinoa salad,frozen dishes, or oatmeal) that only take a matter of minutes to make...great for those times where you are stuck in your room studying!
  • Use your resources- whether it be when family members or friends visit you, or if a friend with a car is taking a trip into town, look into ways to restock your pantry!
  • Make contacts with the people who can help you- as a kitchen worker during the summers, I can tell you that the people who respect and are friendly with the kitchen staff are definitely rewarded-whether it be through the creation of a specific meal for you, or lending you kitchen appliances if needed, or someone who can provide you with great suggestions for innovative new meal ideas- this is a win win friendship to make, as your cafeteria staff will be glad they have someone like you to talk to!
  • Walk through the cafeteria before making your final meal choice...you never want to regret what you eat!
  • Take advantage of on campus café's, as they are likely to provide fresh produce and more organic based food
  • Buy a mini refrigerator! Little containers of hummus, laughing cow cheese, produce, string cheese, low fat cottage cheese, and low fat yogurt are all great and easy to keep snacks that you can use as your specific diet allows
  • Even if you are not a vegan or vegetarian, try to limit red meat intake...opt for veggie burgers, fish, or chicken whenever possible