Healthcare providers play a crucial role in supporting teens with food allergies by providing education, guidance, and medical management. Firstly, healthcare providers can help teens and their families understand the potential severity of food allergies and the importance of strict avoidance of allergens. By offering detailed information about reading food labels, identifying hidden allergens, and creating an emergency action plan, healthcare providers empower teens to take control of their health.

Additionally, healthcare providers can conduct thorough allergy testing to accurately diagnose food allergies and determine the most appropriate treatment plan. They can prescribe epinephrine auto-injectors and educate teens on how and when to use them in case of an allergic reaction. Furthermore, healthcare providers can collaborate with schools to develop individualized healthcare plans that outline necessary precautions and emergency procedures to ensure a safe environment for teens with food allergies.

References:

1. "Food Allergy Research & Education." www.foodallergy.org
2. Sicherer SH, Sampson HA. Food allergy: Epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2014;133(2):291-307.
3. Boyce JA, Assa'ad A, Burks AW, et al. Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of food allergy in the United States: report of the NIAID-sponsored expert panel. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010;126(6 Suppl):S1-58.