Maintenance in College

So you’ve just moved into your college dorm and you’re supposed to keep taking your maintenance dose somehow. New environments, crazy schedules, and weird roommates can make that tough, so here are some tips to help you out.

  1. Have a designated spot for your maintenance foods. Depending on the allergen, this could be a cute box, a special bookshelf, or a mini fridge.

  2. Attach dosing to a non changeable piece of your routine like before a lecture or other calm class. This way you have a landmark and won’t forget because you’re studying like crazy for an exam.

  3. Spend some time “meal prepping” aka measuring your doses. If you’ve overslept and have to rush to class, the last thing you want to be doing is playing mad scientist, trying to get the right amount of nut butter or egg white measured out.

  4. It may feel cringe, but explain OIT to your roommates. You’ll be spreading OIT awareness, setting up an accountability system, and making sure they stay out of your peanut butter, all at the same time!

  5. Keep your support system strong. Your parents, your allergist, your best friend, whoever has supported you through this OIT journey this far can keep helping you. Just because you’re starting out on your own doesn’t mean you have to do everything yourself. If you need help, just ask!

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A New Food Allergy Treatment at BYAA