Have you had allergies all your life, constantly apologising for your condition, never wanting anyone to fuss? or are allergies new to you and you are worried that your life will be severely reduced?
I have been there, cancelling plans, refusing to eat because I didn’t want to be an issue, apologising to the waiter because the chef put nuts on my meal, praying that I would make it to my 16th birthday and sitting alone at a table because I didn’t know how to ask someone not to eat their peanut butter sandwich.
Behind the Allergy (nee The Allergy Table) was born from a desire to create a community of people managing allergies and for us to feel less alone. I have had 30+ years experience managing food allergies from awkward first dates where they ordered a seafood platter to having my teacher share a bag of nuts with the class. All my life I felt that I was the only one with multiple anaphylactic food allergies, it was an isolating experience but when I found out I wasn’t alone, my whole world changed - and I want you to feel that too. Behind the Allergy is a place for you to read real stories of reactors living their lives managing allergic conditions. You will find reviews of food, restaurants, brands, cities, personal stories from yours truly; Plus recipes that are free from nuts, peanuts, egg, dairy, sugar, shellfish, exotic fruits, gluten, and more…
Please never forget you are a person Behind the Allergy.
‘Behind the allergy’ name started as a campaign by called "I am a person behind the allergy"; sponsored by the founder of The Allergy Table, Lindiwe Lewis and the Teal App. The mission of the campaign was to show the public that there is a person behind the allergy. Just because we cannot see them, doesn't mean allergies aren't real.
The campaign spanned the month of September 2020. It was a roaring success, from allies to reactors participating and sharing their story of who they are 'behind the allergy', which was then made into a video.
In 2024, Lindiwe launched a new podcast of the same name. Behind the Allergy Podcast is about all things allergic conditions; hearing open and honest insights of the people behind them, from allergy reactors to free from brands to allergists.
This podcast aims to be open, honest and vulnerable to connect to you, the people in our comminity.
The first episode launched August 1st, 2024 - with Kitt Medical.
It is so nice to meet you.
I am the founder & face of behind the Allergy (nee The Allergy Table). I started this blog as an outlet for my frustrations living with allergies but what I found was a community of amazing, strong, kind humans who understood my allergies like no one has before. Whilst allergies are a massive part of my life, they are not the only thing that defines me.
I am a storyteller with a passion for community, fitness, writing, performing, pancakes, and F.R.I.E.N.D.S.
Watch Behind the Allergy Podcast to learn more…
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”
I have had anaphylaxis since I was 3 months old. My allergies include:
All tree nuts
Peanuts
Sesame seeds
Chickpeas
Peas
Lentils
Kiwi
Pineapple
Shellfish
Horses
I have OAS (Oral allergy syndrome). I also have asthma, eczema and environmental allergies. I have developed more allergies as I have aged, but some of my allergies have gone. They are constantly ebbing and flowing, just like my life!
I would love to hear from you with any ideas, collaborations, or positive vibes! Let’s share your story.
You can contact me on ‘theallergytable@gmail’ or fill in the form below!
"Allergies can be tough, painful, severe, and having a reaction is not a great experience. However, many people who have allergies do not suffer…day-to-day.
An allergic reaction is just a response, not a state of living. Let’s change the narrative from pain and misery to understanding and patience. Let the reactors decide when they’re suffering!"
— Lindiwe Lewis, Founder
GET THE RECIPES…
You are never alone.